Dr. Waltke has written many books and articles. Some of his commentaries on the Bible are Proverbs, Micah, and Genesis. Dr. Waltke was the co-editor of the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. This man has forgotten more than most of us will ever learn in our lives.

I have been very blessed throughout my life to hear some of the greatest Bible teachers of our generation, but none has blessed me more than Dr. Waltke. I want to encourage all of you to invite your friends and join us on Sunday, March 21, at 8:30 am as we welcome Dr. Waltke to Britton Christian Church.

In His Steps,
Mike

The rumbling and gurgling noises began to arise from the church like Mt. St. Helens preparing to blow. Calm was the order of the day until the Mayor and his family came forward one Sunday morning to place their membership. All of the citizens of the community had known Mayor Johnson since he was a little boy. He had won two consecutive terms by a landslide. The word from the “stained glass” section of society was that Mayor Johnson was a God-fearing man. Mayor Johnson and his family had been attending the “First Church of the Wholly Sanctified and Exclusively Saved” since Easter, but trouble came the week before Christmas when the Mayor’s family came forward to officially place their membership.

Everyone was excited to think that a local celebrity could be sitting next to them in the pew on any given Sunday. Then the pastor asked Mayor Johnson’s family, one-by-one, if they had been baptized. The Mayor announced that he and his wife had been baptized while they were members of the Methodist Church when they were children. Mayor Johnson didn’t specify which form of baptism they had undergone. The pastor asked, “Were you immersed, sprinkled with water, or did the pastor pour water over your heads?” The Mayor and his wife looked at one another and said, “We were sprinkled.” The pastor didn’t want to make a scene, but he knew he had a problem on his hands.

Elder Thompson had overheard the conversation between the pastor and Mayor Johnson. As soon as he left church he called his pastor to see what he was planning on doing about the Mayor and his wife. Elder Thompson recommended they have an emergency Elder’s meeting to discuss the matter. The meeting was called and what had begun as a rumble quickly turned into a full blown eruption of emotions and theological debate. Elder Smith, a graduate from Truth Seminary, had prepared a hand-out with every biblical reference to baptism complete with the Greek definition of the word. Elder Davis said, “Baptism is not essential for salvation and if the Mayor and his wife are at peace with their baptism then we should be as well.” He quoted Paul in his letter to the Corinthians where Paul said that he was thankful he had not baptized any of them except for Crispus and Gaius and the household of Stephanus. (1 Corinthians 1:14) After two hours of debating, quoting Scripture, huffing and puffing, stammering and stuttering, two Elders stormed out of the meeting.

The Mayor and his wife heard about all of the commotion and decided that they didn’t want to be the cause of trouble. They decided to never return to the “First Church of the Wholly Sanctified and Exclusively Saved.” That didn’t settle the matter at all for the Elders. They had an issue on their hands and they were determined to make the church “sound” in its theology.

During the month of January letters were mailed out to the members of the church by random people choosing one side or the other. Other letters were quickly fired out in response. Some were called heretics. Others were called apostate. The eruption inside the church quickly flowed like lava into the streets of the small community. Eventually one group left, the pastor resigned to take another church in another community, the Kingdom was scarred once again, and Jesus wept.

Jesus was preparing to go to the Cross. To give His very life for sinners like you and me, sinners who are much more prone to divide and conquer than love and unite. He was in the Garden of Gethsemane when He prayed for His followers, and those who would come to trust Him through their witness. Jesus prayed,

20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. (John 17:20-21 NIV)

As we have been studying Romans 12-13 we have seen how Paul has emphasized God’s call to all of us to love those that He has placed in our lives. This is no casual love of convenience, a love that we make available to others when we feel attracted to them or when they are nice to us, but it is “agape” love that lavishes the unlovely, the unworthy, even the unlovable with the love that we have received from God. When this love is absent from our daily living then we fail to live out Jesus’ prayer for us and unbelievers are unquestionably repulsed by our hypocrisy. Brennan Manning once said,

The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips then walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable. (Brennan Manning)

Paul is not done with his urging to love. As we move into Romans 14-15 we will continue to be challenged to put love into action. Let’s read our Scripture for today from Romans 14:1-12 and see what we can learn.

1Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. 2 One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. 3 The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. 4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. 5 One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. 8 If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. 10 You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written: ” ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.’ ” 12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. (Romans 14:1-12 NIV)

This section of Scripture that we will take a look at this morning is really the beginning of a longer section of the letter to the Church in Rome that is devoted to helping the followers of Jesus get along with brothers and sisters with whom they disagree. The section runs from Romans 14:1-15:13. This is such a relevant section of God’s Word for us today. Studies show that most church growth today is not made up of unbelievers deciding to give their life to Christ and get involved in a church. Most church growth is made up of Christians moving from one congregation to another. People get dissatisfied. Folks become upset at “this” or “that.” People don’t get their way. Folks feel strongly about some issue that comes up that they feel the leadership doesn’t deal with in a biblical way. There are all kinds of things that lead to brothers and sisters not agreeing and allowing their disagreement to divide and separate them one from another.

Evidently what we are witnessing in our own day is not new at all—it was taking place in the church in Rome as well as other churches that Paul addressed in the New Testament. The two issues that Paul brings to light in our section of Scripture today is the eating of certain foods and the celebration of some days as more important than others. Take a look at Romans 14:2-3 with me.

2 One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. 3 The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. (Romans 14:2-3 NIV)

One brother in Christ is perfectly at peace eating anything and everything while the man seated on the pew next to him will not eat any meat at all—he eats only vegetables. Now, if we don’t seek to understand the context of this statement we might be led to believe that the second man who refuses to eat any meat is a strict vegetarian for some of the reasons that folks are vegetarians today. I don’t think there were any members of PETA in Paul’s day. There were different issues going on that I briefly want to touch on.

Some Jewish Converts Still Kept Strict Dietary Laws

First of all, there were Jewish converts that were present in the church in Rome and although they were not commanded to be vegetarians there were restrictions on their diet. In Leviticus we find dietary restrictions spelled out. In Exodus 23:19 we find the verse, “Do not cook a young goat in it’s mother’s milk.” This verse is the basis for Jews keeping two sets of cookware, dishes, silverware, and cups: one for milk dishes and one for meat dishes. Some Jews, those who can afford it, even have two separate kitchens, one for preparing meat dishes and another for preparing milk dishes. All of this is designed to help the Jews remain Kosher.

Some Pagan Converts Refused To Eat Meat Sacrificed to Idols

Secondly, there were people who had been accustomed to frequenting the pagan temples. Paul doesn’t mention this in his letter to the church in Rome, but this is a real issue in the church in Corinth. Corinth was a major metropolitan community which, because of its seaport, entertained people from all over the world. There were at least twelve temples to gods in Corinth. Pagan worship was everywhere and the sacrifice of animals was very prevalent, not just among the Jews, but among the pagans as well. After animals were sacrificed in the pagan temples they would be taken and sold in the marketplace, the Agora. Paul addressed this in 1 Corinthians 8:4-7. Read along with me.

4 So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one. 5 For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”), 6 yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live. 7 But not everyone knows this. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat such food they think of it as having been sacrificed to an idol, and since their conscience is weak, it is defiled. (1 Corinthians 8:4-7 NIV)

For Paul, idols are no gods at all. They have no power and therefore food sacrificed to them is just food, it is no worse or no better than any other food. Yet, because Paul understood that others whose faith is “weak” were affected, he had a higher law that he was willing to follow. In 1 Corinthians 8:13, Paul writes,

13 Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall. (1 Corinthians 8:13 NIV)

Paul doesn’t mention anything about food being sacrificed to idols in his letter to the Romans, but we can guess that the mindset of those in Corinth was also present in Rome. There may be other circumstances and situations that were present which brought about this division in the church at Rome, but there were definitely those with these two mindsets present.

Another illustration that Paul gives us of things that cause division in the church is the observance of some days as more important than others. Paul writes in Romans 14:5.

5 One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. (Romans 14:5 NIV)

For the Jewish converts to Jesus they would have brought their upbringing with them to the Cross. They were raised observing the Sabbath and special Jewish festivals and holy days. For some of these Jewish converts these days had to still hold a special significance for them. Paul, in his letter to the church in Colosse, writes,

16 Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. 17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. (Colossians 2:16-17 NIV)

For some in the church who didn’t have a Jewish background, these days meant nothing, as Paul says, “These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”

These are just two issues that were present in the church in Rome which could have led to disastrous division if not addressed. Paul addressed them. He talks about those whose faith is “weak” and those whose faith is “strong.” What’s really interesting is that we would describe the “weak” and the “strong” opposite of how Paul described them. We would say that those who are “strong” live the more disciplined, strict lifestyle. Paul identifies the “weak” as those who are vegetarians and observe some days as more important than other days.

Nobody was more “strict” with their diet and certain that they had followed all of the laws of cleanliness and washing than the Pharisees. In Mark 7, the Pharisees were upset with Jesus and His followers because they ate their food with their hands, hands that had not been washed. Jesus responded to them and basically charged them with being hypocrites. Later, His disciples asked Him about what He had said to the Pharisees. In Mark 7:17-22, Jesus said.

17 After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable. 18 “Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can make him ‘unclean’? 19 For it doesn’t go into his heart but into his stomach, and then out of his body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods “clean.”) 20 He went on: “What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean.’ 21 For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. (Mark 7:17-22 NIV)

Who had the stronger faith—Jesus or the Pharisees? Well, you and I both know the answer to that question, it was Jesus of course. Yet, who lived the more externally “religious” life? It would have to be the Pharisees. They used their external religious rituals to separate and elevate themselves from all others.

In Jesus’ day, in Paul’s day, and certainly in our day, it is so much easier to focus on externals rather than to focus on what truly matters in our walk with God. We find so many things to separate us, divide us, and elevate us above our brothers and sisters. For the Pharisees it was Jesus’ failure to wash His hands or His choice of dinner companions that caused them to look down at Him. For some of the folks in Rome it was eating meat that might have been sacrificed to idols or failure to recognize the Day of Atonement as a special day. What it is in our day that we use to separate, to elevate us as more spiritual, more godly, than those around us? John R.W. Stott writes,

In our day we might mention such practices as the mode of baptism (whether by immersion or affusion), Episcopal confirmation (whether it is a legitimate part of Christian initiation), the giving and receiving of a wedding ring (which was hotly contested by the Puritans in the seventeenth century), and the use of cosmetics, jewelry and alcohol, together with such beliefs as which charismata are available and/or important, whether miraculous ‘signs and wonders’ are intended to be frequent or infrequent, how Old Testament prophecy has been or will be fulfilled, when and how the millennium will be established, the relation of history to eschatology, and the precise nature of both heaven and hell. In these and other issues, today as in the first-century Rome, the problem is how to handle conscientious differences in matters on which Scripture is either silent or seemingly equivocal, in such a way as to prevent them from disrupting the Christian fellowship. (Stott, John R.W. The Message of Romans, Intervarsity Press, Downers Grove, IL. 1994. pg. 358.)

None of the issues mentioned by Dr. Stott are “core” issues, they are all non-essentials. We are not dealing with Christology, or “Is Jesus the only Savior, the only Mediator between God and humanity?” We are not dealing with the trustworthiness of the Word of God. We allow non-essentials, periphery issues to divide us most often.

There are essentials, matters that are absolutely non-negotiable for us as followers of Jesus. We can’t compromise on the supremacy of the Bible as God’s Word. We can’t compromise on the Sovereignty of God over all the affairs of history. We can’t compromise on the Virgin Birth of Jesus because it is the bedrock for our understanding of His being the perfect sacrifice, a Lamb without spot or blemish. We can’t compromise on the sin nature of all who have ever lived except for One, the perfect Son of God. We can’t compromise on the truth that salvation is by grace through faith and not by works. We can’t compromise on the substitutionary atonement of Jesus for our sins. He died in our place, a perfect substitute for our imperfect, sin-scarred lives. And we can’t compromise on the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It was His resurrection that validated every claim He ever made. These are non-negotiables.

For some of you, you may disagree with me. You might think my list is too short or too long. I would love to visit with you about your lists if you would like. I will promise you this—I will love you whether we can come to an agreement or not. And this leads me to close our study today by asking, “What do we do when we disagree on non-essentials?” Well, Paul says that we are to “accept” one another. He uses an interesting Greek word there in Romans 14:1. Read the verse with me.

1Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. (Romans 14:1 NIV)

The Greek word for “accept” is “προσλαμβάνω” (proslambano) and it means, “to take to one’s self, to take as one’s companion, or to grant one access to one’s heart.” It is not merely being willing to be in their presence, but it is taking them into our hearts, to love them. The same word was used by Paul in Philemon when he wrote to his friend about his runaway slave, Onesimus. Paul wanted Philemon to take this brother in Christ back so he wrote him a letter and sent it with Onesimus. Read with me from Philemon 1:15-17.

15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good– 16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord. 17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. (Philemon 1:15-17 NIV)

“Welcome him as you would welcome me.” That’s it. We are to welcome our brothers and sisters with whom we disagree. We are to love them.

There is more. We are not to “look down on” our brothers and sisters with whom we disagree. Paul writes in Romans 14:3.

3 The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. (Romans 14:3 NIV)

The Greek word for “look down on” literally means, “to make no account” or “to despise utterly.” Luke uses the same word to describe how the Pharisee regarded the tax collector. Read along with me in Luke 18:9-14.

9 To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men–robbers, evildoers, adulterers–or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ 13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ 14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14 NIV)

We are not to regard our brothers and sisters as inferior, unspiritual, or ungodly simply because they see things differently than we do. We are to honor all who follow Jesus as brothers and sisters in Christ because they belong to Him, He died for them just like He gave His life for us, and we are going to give an account to Him for the life we’ve lived just like they are. One of the areas in which we are going to have to give an account is every word that comes out of our mouths. I sure don’t want to be guilty of slamming my teammates. I sure don’t want to let careless, harmful, prideful words indict me before my King. Jesus said,

36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37 NIV)

Paul had great hopes for the believers at Rome. I have the same hope for us at Britton Christian Church. There are so many things that could divide us if we allow them to, but if we will keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, His glory and majesty, His grace and mercy, then we will be the most humble and gracious of all people.

I told you that this section runs from Romans 14:1-15:13. Let me give you a glimpse at how Paul closes the section. Turn with me to Romans 15:5-7 and let’s read together.

5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. (Romans 15:5-7 NIV)

Is this your prayer for Britton Christian Church? Is this your passion for this body of believers? Are you a living answer to Jesus’ prayer that we would all be one or are you part of the problem? Won’t you allow the Lord to search your heart this morning as we close this service of worship. Come forward if you would like to ask Jesus into your heart. He will fill you with a love for those around you. He will fill you with a desire to work for the unity of the Body. He will fill you with His Spirit so that you might be His witness in this world. Come.

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
March 7, 2010

As Paul reaches the end of his lesson on loving those God has placed in our lives he says, “Do it!” To add urgency to the call Paul goes on to say, “…understanding the present time.” It is of utmost importance for us to understand the times in which we live at this present moment. Before we get too far into our study we need to take the time to read our Scripture for this morning. Turn with me to Romans 13:11-14 and let’s begin.

11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Romans 13:11-14 NIV)

This is such a rich section of Paul’s letter. The main problem that we have this morning is not how to understand what God is saying to us through these verses, but how can we drink in the flood of truth that God has prepared for us. Absorbing these four verses in the time we have is like getting a drink from a fire hydrant. It is simply too much to take in at one time. So, I want to encourage you to continue your study of these important verses throughout the week.

I mentioned to you that it is important for us to understand the “times.” There are two Greek words that are used most often to describe “time” in the New Testament—“chronos” and “kairos.” “Chronos” is the Greek word from which we get our word, “chronology.” The other Greek word that is frequently used is “καιρός” (kairos). Some folks have drawn sharp distinctions between the two words, but I wouldn’t be too dogmatic about that. The word, “Kairos” means, “a measure of time, an era, age, or a time of opportunity.” If “time” was being used to convey the idea of an era or age, you would say something like, “During the time of King David.” “Kairos” can also be used to speak about an opportunity. God gives us opportunities each and every day and yet we need to know what time it is. In the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, the Septuagint, we read in Ecclesiastes 3.

1There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: 2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NIV)

There is a time for everything. The key for you and me is to know what time it is? This past week, on Tuesday morning, I got up early to go to the hospital to pray with someone who was getting ready for surgery. As I was getting ready the Lord put Herman on my heart so I decided I would catch him before he taught his Bible study at 6:30 am. Herman’s uncle went home to be with the Lord last Saturday. I knew God had used Uncle Bobby in a special way in Herman’s life and that his death was weighing heavy on Herman’s heart. We had an opportunity to sit and talk, to reminisce, and for me to give Herman a hug and let him know that I was praying for him. I knew before I ever arrived that God was giving me an opportunity to love Herman in his grief.

On Wednesday of this past week I had another opportunity. I was going to see Mitch Meier at his mom and dad’s house. I had been told that Mitch wasn’t doing well. He wasn’t making the progress that his doctors were hoping he would make. I was going to console and comfort Mitch and his family. When I got there I learned that Mitch was making great improvement. He is determined. He has a tenacious fighting spirit. He has the absolute best cheerleading squad in Arlene and Rob that anyone could ever hope to have. He is hopeful and determined to walk again someday. I thought I knew what I was going to do, but when I saw Mitch and listened to him talk I realized that it wasn’t time to console and comfort—it was time to celebrate!

I want to emphasize the “opportunity” aspect of “kairos” because many folks have jumped right over the opportunities that we have in this present time and focused on the end of time, on Christ’s return. Paul writes, 11 “And do this, understanding the present time.” (For other uses of the Greek word, “kairos,” see: Matthew 26:15; Mark 1:15; Luke 19:44; John 7:6; Romans 5:6; Galatians 6:9; Ephesians 6:18; 2 Timothy 4:6) I believe this is a huge part of our problem. We don’t understand the urgency and opportunity of our “present time,” and therefore Paul is urging us to “wake up.” We, as followers of Jesus, can become so focused on Christ’s return that we are lulled to sleep in this present time. Let’s read verse 11 together.

11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. (Romans 13:11 NIV)

It’s time to wake up! I don’t think that I need to take too much time to convince you that the Church, the Body of Christ, is sleepwalking through this present time. I see lots of activity, but is it the work that we have been given to do? I see tons of church buildings, but is what takes place in church buildings any different than the buildings of the Masonic Lodge, Kiwanis’ Club, or Country Club?

I had a thought this past week while I was studying this Scripture that I want to share with you. The conclusion of my thought process disturbed me; maybe it will disturb you as well. Here we go. Our goal is to find the most pagan city in America, the city least impacted by the Gospel. We might look for cities with very few churches, no significant population of believers, no Christian radio stations, or no Christian bookstores. Once we identified that city then we could seek to understand all of the societal ills that plague the city. Poverty, pregnancies out of wedlock and abortion statistics, divorce rates, crime rates, illiteracy and dropout rates, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic abuse, etc. If we then took those statistics and compared them to the societal ills of the city which is the “Buckle of the Bible belt,” Oklahoma City, would there be any difference? I don’t have any data to back up my answer, but I can guess that the differences would be minimal. How can that be? The answer is quite simple—the Church is asleep. We are not doing what we have been called to do. We are not who we have been called to be in the world.

If I were to go pew by pew through this sanctuary today and ask each person gathered here, “Do you believe that Jesus is the long promised Messiah sent from God to save us from our sins, to save us from ourselves? Do you believe that it is only through a relationship with Jesus that we can truly experience transformation in life?” I bet the vast majority of us would say, “Absolutely!” If I followed those two questions with two more questions: “Have you shared that information with anyone during the past week? Have you shared the hope that you have found in Jesus with anyone during the past week?” The vast majority of us would say, “No.” How can that be?

What the followers of Jesus are doing today is equivalent to driving down the road, watching someone get hit by a car, and driving right by them without even stopping to help. The man hit by the car will die if we don’t stop to help. Why don’t we stop to help? Why won’t we tell a dying world about the Good News of Jesus?

Paul says that it is time to wake up. He doesn’t just say that because it is passionate rhetoric. Paul says, “Wake up…because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” That is a powerful statement. There is urgency in Paul’s pen because the clock is running, the sands of the hourglass are trickling on, time is slipping away. You and I can never reclaim the opportunities that God provided for you and me just this past week.

If you are a Christian then you need to know that you have less time to serve Him now than you did when you came into this sanctuary this morning. You may have been walking with the Lord for two weeks, two years, or twenty years, but your time to serve Him is less now than on that day when you surrendered your life to Him.

Young people, you especially need to carefully consider my words. When we are young we think we are going to live forever. We get so caught up in the things that are so important to our peers that we give little thought to the things that matter to God. We think, “When I get older then I will get serious about my relationship with God.” How do you know that you will get older? There are young people who die every day. There are young people who are vibrant and active and then suddenly they find out that they are suffering from some terminal disease or they have an accident that limits them. Young people you need to realize that now is the time to seek God with all of your heart. Now is the time to allow God to use you in the lives of those He has placed in your life. Now is the time…

We, as the Body of Christ, are being influenced by our culture rather than having an influence on our culture. We are being influenced by others rather than influencing those around us. Take a look at verse 12 with me.

12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:12 NIV)

We live in a unique period of history—the time between Jesus’ death and resurrection and His return. During this time there is rebellion, darkness, sorrow, and sin of every sort that plagues us, but Paul says, “The day is almost here.” Throughout Scripture we find references to the “day of the Lord.” The “day of the Lord” is the day in which God comes in judgment to right all wrongs. In 2 Peter 3:10-14 we read,

10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. 14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. (2 Peter 3:10-14 NIV)

Peter and Paul are in absolute agreement. Since the day of the Lord is almost here we should make every effort to live holy lives, to live in right relationships, to share the Good News with all of those around us.

In verse 12 Paul says that we should put aside the “deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” You have to remember that Paul was writing this letter to the Church. They must have been as messed up as the American Church because Paul tells them to put aside the “deeds of darkness.” What does he mean by this phrase? Well, let’s read on.

13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. (Romans 13:13 NIV)

We are not to be involved in orgies, drunkenness, sexual immorality of any kind, dissensions, or jealousy. We are to put aside these activities. The Greek word for “put aside” is “ἀποτίθημι” (apotithemi) and it means to “to put off or to put away.” Get rid of these practices. We may have been involved in these kinds of activities in the past, before we came to know Jesus, and that is understandable because these are the ways of the world. But now that we have died to ourselves and been given a new life in Jesus—we are to get rid of that lifestyle. Paul wrote to the Church in Ephesus and told them the same thing. He writes,

22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV)

Just down the road from the Church in Ephesus was a group of believers in the city of Colosse. Paul wrote to them as well. Listen to his words and see if you see any similarity between what Paul has already written.

5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. (Colossians 3:5-10 NIV)

You know what is really interesting? All of these things that Paul says the people need to get rid of are written to folks who were in the church. How can the followers of Jesus be effective in society if we are living like those who don’t claim to know Jesus? Paul says that we are to get rid of these ways of living and live out our new lives that are rooted and grounded in Jesus and His character.

Rather than continuing to live the lives that we lived before we came to know Jesus we are to “put on the armor of life.” In verse 14, Paul says that we are “clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.” Take a look at verse 14 with me.

14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Romans 13:14 NIV)

The “armor of life” and “clothing ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” are essential if we are to be the people of God. We treat this life and our call from God so casual, but the truth is that we are in a war against our flesh, the world, and the devil. Many followers of Jesus are losing the battle because they are not even aware that they are in a battle—they are sleepwalking through life. In Ephesians 6, Paul says to “put on the full armor of God.” Read along with me beginning in Ephesians 6:11.

11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:11-17 NIV)

We are to prepare for battle each and every day. We don’t do battle as the world does, but we have our battle attire that is necessary for us to live out our call from God.

If someone in full military uniform walked into our sanctuary this morning there would be no mistaking him right? If you see someone wearing scrubs with covers over their shoes, gloves on their hands, and a mask covering their face—you know that person works in a hospital environment. If an athlete comes into our sanctuary in shoulder pads, cleats, and a helmet then you know a football player is among us. How do you recognize one of the followers of Jesus? Well, it’s not the jewelry they wear, the Bible they carry, or their use of “christianese.” We are clothed in Christ. His attributes make up our character. His compassion is visible in the way we interact with others. His mercy is witnessed through us. His love is expressed in our daily lives. His holiness sets us apart from those around us. Our obedience to His call on our lives signifies our deadness to the attractions of this world. Our brokenness and tears for those who do not know Him are signs of His heart beating in our chests. Paul wrote to the folks in Ephesus and said,

22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV)

We are recreated to be like God in true right relationship, the very things that Paul has been outlining for us in Romans 12-13, and in holiness. God is not doing this work in us simply for us. He is doing a work in each of us as a living testimony to a lost world. When Paul wrote to Timothy he described the very thing we have been talking about. Read along with me from 1 Timothy 1:15-16.

15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. (1 Timothy 1:15-16 NIV)

Why was Paul shown mercy? Was it just so Paul might understand the mercy of God? Not at all. Paul says that he was shown mercy so that God could use him as an example for those who are lost and oblivious to God’s mercy. Paul received mercy so that others might know Paul’s story and in turn come to experience the mercy of the Savior as well. Paul was fully aware that God had called him to be an example, but he was not the only one who was called to be an example. Paul wrote to Timothy and urged him.

12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12 NIV)

It’s time to wake up and recognize that God has called you and me, those whom He has showered with mercy and grace, those He has rescued from destruction and redeemed, He has called us to be living examples of His love, mercy, and salvation to a lost world. We know in our hearts that this is true, but the bottom line for many believers is that they are content with their own salvation. It is time for the Church to wake up and suit up so that a dying world might come to know the freedom, joy, purpose, and salvation that is found in Jesus alone.

If you are here this morning and you do not know Jesus as Lord of your life then I want to urge you this morning to cry out to Him. He will come running to you in the blink of an eye my friends. If you are here this morning and you are a Christian, but you’ve not even given the lost people of this world a thought during the past week then I want to urge you to cry out to God and beg Him to break your heart for those who do not know Him.

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
February 28, 2010

I want you to know that God is all for that which is “attention getting.” Just look at what He has created. How can you see the incredible beauty and variety of the colors and shapes of the creatures He has placed in the ocean and not be amazed? How can you stand on a snow covered mountain and watch snowflakes falling with the grace and elegance of a Baryshnikov and not be amazed? God has placed within us an attraction for the magnificent. He has placed within us a propensity for wonderment, but rather than being amazed at what is truly amazing, we’ve become amazed with stuff.

In Matthew 15, the people who were in the presence of Jesus were amazed at what He did for those who had debilitating needs. Read along with me from Matthew 15:30-31.

30 Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them. 31 The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. (Matthew 15:30-31 NIV)

What did they do when they broke out in amazement? They praised God. Our wonderment, our amazement, should lead us to praise God, to draw near to God.

In Matthew 5, Jesus was telling the people that they were the salt of the earth and the light of the world. He said that people don’t light a lamp and put it under a bushel. Instead, they set it where it can give light to the whole room. Then, in verse 16, Jesus said,

16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NIV)

Let your light so shine that others may see your good deeds. As a result they will… What will they do? They will praise your Father in heaven. We are to live in such a way that others are amazed at our lives and in turn they praise God, they desire to seek God. Turn with me to John 13:35 and let’s read together.

35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. (John 13:35 NIV)

The distinguishing mark of the follower of Jesus is love, a unique kind of love. The distinguishing mark of a follower of Jesus is not their understanding of the difference between Dispensational Premillennialism, Postmillennialism, and Preterism, how many verses he or she can quote, how many conferences they’ve attended, or how many bumper stickers they have on their car. The distinguishing mark of the followers of Jesus is a unique kind of love. It is God’s desire that as we live out this unique kind of love, others will say, “Where did you get that?”

We’ve been taking a look at this unique kind of love for many weeks now since we began our study of Romans 12 and 13. How do we love our brothers and sisters in Christ? How do we love outsiders, those who are not followers of Jesus? How do we love our enemies? How do we love those in authority over us? Paul isn’t done yet. Let’s read our Scripture for today and we’ll get started.

7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. 8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:7-10 NIV)

We covered verse 7 in our last study so we won’t go back over it. I’ve included it this morning because verse 8 is an extension of verse 7. Pay what you owe. “Let no debt remain except the continuing debt to love one another…”

I really debated this week about spending our entire time on five words from verse 8: “Let no debt remain outstanding…” Debt is suffocating. The average debt that Americans carry on their credit cards, per household, was $10,679.00 at the end of 2008. 13.9% of our disposable income went to pay consumer debt. According to Cardtrak.com, the average interest rate for standard bank credit cards topped 19% in March 2007, compared to 16.5% in 2003. (source: www.cardtrak.com) I read just this past week about the First Premier card which is targeted at people who have really bad credit. Those who get the card have a $300 credit line, but they will pay an annual interest rate of 79.9%!

I’ve heard it said, “As goes the people, so goes the nation.” We spend like there is no tomorrow and when we become smothered in debt we simply declare bankruptcy. Our nation is living the same way. We are over $12 trillion in debt as a nation. I know what the politicians say, but God says, “Pay what you owe.” In Proverbs 22 we read, “The borrower is the slave of the lender” (Proverbs 22:7 ESV).

We, as followers of Jesus, should pay what we have agreed to pay. If you borrow money to buy a house then pay your mortgage and pay it on time. Buy a house you can afford and pay your mortgage. If you are renting an apartment, rent one you can afford and then pay your rent on time. If we have bills of any kind then we should pay them on time. If we borrow tools from a neighbor or a book from a friend—then we should return them in a timely manner. Many years ago I had an old brown Chevy truck; I called it “Brown Sugar.” It was like a community truck. People borrowed it all the time to move stuff and I was glad to let them use it. I have a friend who would borrow my truck quite frequently. Every time he borrowed it he returned it to me with a tank full of gas and cleaner than when he took the keys from me. Now, that’s a testimony. Let’s read verse 8.

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:8 NIV)

We are to make a concerted effort to get out of debt, to owe no one anything, but there is one debt that will be perpetual, that we will never fulfill. We owe love to those God has placed in our lives. I mentioned to you earlier that the love we are talking about is a unique kind of love—it is “agape” love. It is love with no expectations, love with no strings attached. It never says, “I will love you if you love you.” Reciprocal love is the kind of love that we are accustomed to seeing in our daily lives. If you do me right then I will do right by you. If you love me then I will love you. The love that we are called to is rooted in the character of God who loved us when we were His enemies and continues to love us when we go astray.

When Paul began urging us to love and then addressing how we are to love the various groups of people that he has outlined in Romans 12-13, he began by giving us a view of “God’s mercy.” It is God’s mercy that serves as our model, our standard, not the love that we hear about and witness in the world around us. If left to our own to determine “who” and “how” we are to love then our circle will be quite small. We are no different than those who have gone before us.

In Jesus day, the people knew that they were to love their neighbor, but their definition of “neighbor” was quite different than Jesus’ definition. Jesus didn’t give them a list of who qualified for the title of neighbor, He told them a story. Turn with me to Luke 10:30-37 and let’s read together.

30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 2 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:30-37 NIV)

Who was the neighbor to the man who fell on hard times? Was it the priest? Hardly. He was too busy. Was it the Levite? Nope. He didn’t even stop to see the man in need. It was the Samaritan. A man who was not his “homeboy,” didn’t attend the same church, and didn’t live in the same neighborhood as the man who had been beaten. As a matter of fact he would have never hung out with the guy from Jerusalem, but he loved him enough to stop and help. In Matthew 5:43-48, Jesus said,

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:43-48 NIV)

Can you see why I’ve been saying that this is a unique kind of love? Who loves their enemies and prays for those who persecute them? I can tell you. Those whose hearts have been captured by the love of God and who desire more than anything in life to walk in Jesus’ steps.

We often hear people in our society talk about the need for all of us to love one another, for us to, in the words of Rodney King, “just get along.” The kind of love that we are called to live out is impossible apart from the transformation that comes through knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior of our life. Let me give you another glimpse of the uniqueness of the love of Jesus. Paul wrote to the folks in Colosse and said,

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (Colossians 3:12-14 NIV)

We can find examples of each of these characteristics in the lives of people that we know. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness—these are not uniquely “Christian,” but what sets God’s people apart from the rest of the population is that we are to be the embodiment of these characteristics regardless of whether things are going our way or not. There are experiences in life that cause even the most hardened to momentarily become compassionate. There are instances in life when even the most tight-fisted can exhibit kindness. There are moments when the toughest can be gentle. For the follower of Jesus these characteristics are to be the bedrock of who we are.

Because of the Fall, because of our sin nature, we are not naturally inclined in this direction. We are primarily and fundamentally self-preservationist. We are really good at looking out for number one. The only way for these characteristics to become part of the fiber of our being is transformation. We must be transformed through the invasion of our hearts by Jesus Christ. It is His kindness expressed through our living. It is His gentleness articulated through our actions. It is His compassion being manifested through our daily interaction with others. He is the one who has freed us from the bonds of self. He is the one who has liberated us from the agony of living life according to the pattern of this world. It is incumbent upon us to share with those who are still walking blindly through life trying to find relief, trying to find meaning and purpose, trying to find peace, and trying to make sense of it all.

Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones gives an illustration to help us understand our debt to those who need to know God’s unique love. There was a man who had been ill for many years. He had some kind of crippling arthritis that no doctor could diagnose or help alleviate his pain. One day the man heard about a doctor who, he was told, could help him. He traveled to the city where the doctor resided and once the doctor saw him he knew immediately what was the source of his trouble. The doctor prescribed him some medicine and said, “Now you take that and you will get rid of your pain. After a while, your joints will become loose and supple again and you will be perfectly well.” The man did exactly as he was told and, in time, he regained his health.

One day the man was walking up and down the streets of his town when he saw a man who was struggling just to walk. Immediately, he knew that the man was suffering from his old ailment and that he had never heard of the prescription that brought him relief. Not only this, but he just happened to have some of the pills with him. He carried them with him everywhere he went since his health was restored. So what should he do? Dr. Lloyd-Jones says,

He must cross the road, accost the man and say to him, ‘Excuse me, sir, you don’t know me and I don’t know you, but I do know what’s the matter with you. Tel me, have you ever heard of this? And he must produce the prescription. (D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Romans: Chapter 13, pgs. 169-170)

He knows the one thing that will bring the man’s suffering to an end. He owes it to the man to share the prescription with him. We, like the man in the illustration, know the remedy for what ails all of humanity, and we owe it to them to share the only “prescription” which can bring them relief.

We are indebted to the world which is walking in darkness trying to find the light switch. They may not look like they need a thing, but let me assure you that if they do not know Jesus, if they are not walking with Jesus, then they are living in the dark and their future is grim.

At the end of verse 8 and at the end of verse 10 Paul says, “Love is the fulfillment of the law.” I’ve been thinking about Paul’s statement this week. Love is a debt that we will never be able to stamp “Paid in Full!” and yet, if we live out of the love of Jesus we will fulfill the law. In Romans 7 we learned that the law shines a spotlight on our sinful nature. We just can’t keep it. We are law breakers. Then, in Romans 8, Paul tells us that God has done for us, in Jesus, what none of us could do on our own. Read verses 1-4 with me.

1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, 4 in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:1-4 NIV)

God, through Jesus, has set us free to live in love, to walk in love, to love the unlovable, to love our enemies, and to do all of this for His glory and the blessing of all of those He has led into our lives. In Romans 13:9-10 we read,

9 The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:9-10 NIV)

Paul is quoting Scripture from Exodus 20 and Leviticus 19:18. “Do not commit adultery. Do not murder. Do not steal. Do not covet” are all from the Ten Commandments. “Love your neighbor as yourself” is a quotation from Leviticus 19:18.

The law was the end all for the Jews of Jesus’ day. As long as you did what you were supposed to do then you could feel good about your relationship with God. They became so consumed with the law that it became mechanical, simply something to make sure you did. When Jesus was asked which of the commandments was the greatest, He said,

37 Jesus replied: ” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40 NIV)

“Love.” Love God with all of your heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbor as you love yourself. God never intended for the law to become an endless series of mindless acts. Love breathes life into the law. Why do we refuse to take another person’s life? Why do we refuse to betray our marriage vows? Why do we refuse to steal what belongs to another person? Because it is wrong? Yes it is wrong, but an even greater reason is because our love for God compels us to love our neighbor in the same way that we have been loved.

We are to live our lives in such a way that an unbelieving world takes notice and says, “Where did you get that?” As I mentioned to you earlier, and I must stress again, the agape love that God calls us to live is impossible in and of ourselves. We can only be a vehicle of His love, a conduit of the divine love that seeks to bless others even when it is costly. I ran across a paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 13 this week that is so beautiful. Let me read it to you before we leave here.

If I [know] the language perfectly and speak like a native, and have not [God’s] love for them, I am nothing. If I have diplomas and degrees and know all the up-to-date methods, and have not His touch of understanding love, I am nothing. If I am able to argue successfully against the religions of the people and make fools of them, and have not His wooing note, I am nothing. If I have all faith and great ideals and magnificent plans, and not His love that sweats and bleeds and weeps and prays and pleads, I am nothing. If I give my clothes and money to them, and have not His love for them, I am nothing. If I surrender all prospects, leave home and friends, make the sacrifices of a missionary career, and turn sour and selfish amid the daily annoyances and slights of a missionary life, and have not the love that yields its rights, its leisures, its pet plans, I am nothing. Virtue has ceased to go out of me. If I can heal all manner of sickness and disease, but wound hearts and hurt feelings for want of His love that is kind, I am nothing. If I can write articles or publish books that win applause, but fail to transcribe the Word of the Cross into the language of His love, I am nothing. (Source unknown)

The love that God has modeled for us is a love that has captured our hearts has it not? Why do I do the things I do? That is so easy for me to explain. It is because God has showered me with His love, His mercy, and His grace. He has loved me in unexplainable ways. His patience with me is incomprehensible. I want to express my gratitude to Him with every breath I have within me. I want others to know His love. I want others to know the salvation and security that is found in a living relationship with Him. I want others to know the peace that surpasses all understanding that comes from sharing in an intimate relationship with Him. He says the best way for them to come to know these wonderful blessings is for me to love them with His love. Maybe someone here this morning has been looking for the love, peace, and purpose that I’ve been talking about this morning. The world and your own mind will try and convince you that what you are looking for is something, or someone, other than God, but I came to tell you that the Lord has brought you here this morning so that you might come to know Him this very morning. Won’t you invite Him in?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
February 21, 2010
bccpreacherman@aol.com

I’m so excited that I can hardly wait for Sunday! During Spring Break we will take a charter bus load of kids to the mountains of Colorado to go skiing. It is a memory maker if I’ve ever seen one. One of our big fund raisers to help underwrite our trip is our Spaghetti Luncheon and Auction this Sunday, February 21, from 12 noon until 1 pm.

Reggie Smith, who played at OU and is now playing for the San Francisco 49ers, has gotten involved with some of our work with the young people of our community. Reggie’s foundation is helping our Study Buddies and Middle School Learning Center in some exciting new ways. Reggie is also responsible for helping us acquire the jerseys and football that will be auctioned off this Sunday. Here’s a list of the items that we will auction.

Adrian Peterson’s Minnesota Vikings autographed jersey
Reggie Smith’s 49er’s autographed jersey
Patrick Willis’ 49er’s autographed jersey
Mark Clayton’s Baltimore Raven’s autographed jersey
Tommy Harris’ Chicago Bears autographed jersey
Curtis Lofton Atlanta Falcon’s autographed football

It is going to be a great luncheon and I hope you will pass this email along to all of your sports fan buddies and encourage them to come and get in on the bidding. All of the proceeds will go towards helping to underwrite the Spring Break Ski Trip to Colorado.

In His Steps,
Mike

There have been times throughout my life that I’ve seen or heard the stories of the high profile, hugely successful, and often adored news makers in our society and thought, “I could sure get use to his life.” I bet you’ve done the same thing. The stories of the rags-to-riches, every day man or woman who works their fingers to the bone, makes it big, and now lives an MTV Cribs kind of life fascinates us, makes us crave the experience of living the “good life,” and can also lead us to conclude that our lives are insignificant and boring.

If only I was famous. If only I could dance like Usher or Michael Jackson. If only I could hit a golf ball like Tiger Woods, play basketball like LeBron James, or hit a tennis ball like Serena Williams. If only I could sing like Josh Groban, Carrie Underwood, Beyonce, Chris Tomlin, or Lady Gaga (surely I didn’t just type that?) Invent something cool like Steve Jobs. Make a zillion dollars like Bill Gates or Warren Buffett. If only I had it made then I could be happy!! Have you ever had that thought? You might not admit it, but I know you have.

Over and over again God gives us reminders that “stuff” nor “status” will fulfill us or make us happy. In Ecclesiastes, we can read about the search for meaning that was undertaken by the richest man who ever lived, Solomon. He writes,

8 I collected great sums of silver and gold, the treasure of many kings and provinces. I hired wonderful singers, both men and women, and had many beautiful concubines. I had everything a man could desire! 9 So I became greater than all who had lived in Jerusalem before me, and my wisdom never failed me. 10 Anything I wanted, I would take. I denied myself no pleasure. I even found great pleasure in hard work, a reward for all my labors. 11 But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless– like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere. (Ecclesiastes 2:8-11 NLT)

Solomon went for it. We think, “If I had… Then I would…” Well, there was no “if” for Solomon. He had all the resources in the world at his fingertips and he went for it. At the conclusion of his experiment he said, “It’s worthless, meaningless.” There is no sustaining satisfaction in the “stuff” or “status” of this life.

For those who get irritated at me always quoting from the Bible to try and hammer home my point, let me read from this morning’s news. “British Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen Found Dead.” There you go. I had never heard of Lee Alexander McQueen before today, but I’ve spent some time reading about the man and he was quite a “Star” from what I gather. A “creative genius” in the fashion industry. I’ve read that phrase over and over again.

He grew up the son of a taxi driver and school teacher, loved fashion, and made it big. No, really BIG. All of the high profile beautiful people wanted to wear his clothes to the Grammys, the Oscars, and other high profile functions. Here’s a sample of some of his achievements.

* Named head designer at Givenchy in 1996.
* British Designer of the Year. Four times between 1996-2003.
* Gucci Group bought 51% of his company in 2000.
* International Designer of the Year.
* Honored by Queen Elizabeth as Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on June 13, 2006.

What a life! Success? Check! Money? Check! Fame? Check! Notoriety? Check! Then why did Alexander slip into his room, put a noose around his neck, and slowly slip away last night? Some people that I’ve read today have shared their ideas. First, his mother, whom he dearly loved, passed away last week. His dear friend, Isabella Blow, the woman who discovered him, died three years ago, also from suicide. Isabella drank “weed killer” after she learned that she had ovarian cancer. It wasn’t the first time she had attempted to take her own life.

I heard this past week that the number one reason women in the U.K. visit the Emergency Room is attempted suicide. It is the 2nd leading cause of men to visit the Emergency Room. I also heard that suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10-24 right here in Oklahoma. It’s not just high profile, seemingly successful people who take their own life. If you are like most people then any time someone takes their life it is a tragedy. An incomprehensible, unexplainable tragedy. But when someone like Alexander McQueen takes their life it raises a whole new set of questions. “Why would someone who has everything going for him take his own life? Why would someone who is living the dream of the masses choose to check out?” Alex Geana from The Huffington Post asks,

Much like the sudden and shrouded death of Heath Ledger we are left grappling, trying to understand what loneliness needs to overcome; so that someone this amazing would need to take their own life. Outside looking in. Lee Alexander McQueen had it all, yet he clearly didn’t agree. (Alex Geana, The Huffington Post, February 11, 2010

“Outside looking in. Lee Alexander McQueen had it all, yet he clearly didn’t agree.” Jesus had some advice for the people of His day. I believe His words are just as relevant and powerful today. Listen to what Jesus said,

36 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? 37 Is anything worth more than your soul? (Mark 8:36-37 NLT)

We can learn much from the lives of people like Lee Alexander McQueen and his friend, Isabella Blow. As successful as each were they were never satisfied, never fulfilled. We so easily become entrenched in the pursuit of those things and experiences that we believe will lift us above the mundane. Solomon was right, “Everything under the sun is meaningless” when it comes to providing for us “ultimate meaning and significance in life.” We have to look to the Son to find purpose, contentment, fulfillment, and salvation for this life and the one to come. Don’t let the lesson of Lee Alexander slide on by without you stopping to consider your own life.

In His Steps,
Mike

This week we are going to take one last look at this important section of God’s Word. This week I want us to try and understand when, if ever, we should refuse to submit to that which our leaders ask of us. How about we begin by taking a look at our Scripture once again? Turn with me to Romans 13:1-7.

1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. (Romans 13:1-7 NIV)

Throughout history we can find illustration after illustration of people rebelling against the injustices of governments. Our own country, the United States of America, came to be through the rejection of the rule of the British over the thirteen colonies. The Revolutionary War, or War of Independence, lasted from 1775-1783 when, following the war, the Americans and the British signed a peace treaty in Paris, France.

If we will jump forward 200 years, the year 1989 was a monumental year for the fall of unjust governments. No less than six governments were toppled from within. Most of you were alive back in 1989 so maybe you remember the day the Berlin Wall fell. What you may not know is that one of the contributing factors of the downfall of East Germany was the move of God through the Body of Christ. In the early 80’s Christian Fuhrer, the pastor of St. Nikolai Evangelical Lutheran Church began holding weekly prayer services for peace at the church.

In October 1989, on the 40th anniversary of the Communist’s rise to power, the government cracked down on protesters. In Leipzig, the home of St. Nikolai Church, the sanctuary was packed with people praying. When the prayer service was over, 70,000 people marched through the city as soldiers watched, but did not attack. Pastor Fuhrer, in an article in USA Today from November of 2009, said,

‘In church,’ Fuhrer said, ‘people had learned to turn fear into courage, to overcome the fear and to hope, to have strength. They came to church and then started walking, and since they did not do anything violent, the police were not allowed to take action. [East German officials] said, ‘We were ready for anything, except for candles and prayer.’ (Potter, Deborah. “The Church That Helped Bring Down the Berlin Wall.” USA Today 5 Nov 2009.)

One month after the people filled the streets, on November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall, separating East and West Berlin came down. The Church that knelt in prayer and stood strong in the face of governmental oppression is the same Church that worked for the blessing of the nation and the conversion of those who had caused the suffering. Let me give you an example of what I am talking about.

Uwe Holmer began studying theology in 1948 and became a pastor. Pastor Holmer led a small Christian community for the mentally handicapped, the elderly, and those suffering from epilepsy just outside of East Berlin. Religion was tolerated, but not welcomed in Communist East Germany so Pastor Holmer found himself often at odds with the leaders of his country. The attacks included eight of his ten children being denied higher education by the Minister of Education, Margot Honecker, the wife of the ruler of East Germany, because of Uwe’s commitment to Jesus Christ.

Erich Honecker was the man who was responsible for building the Berlin Wall. When the wall fell, Erich Honecker was deposed as the ruler of East Germany and he left his office as the most hated man in all of Germany. He was physically sick and feeble when he was removed from office. He had kidney problems, was suffering from cancer, and needed help. He and his wife, Margot, had to leave the official residence, but there was no place for them to go. The Communist party turned its back on them. Their own daughter wouldn’t take them in. With no place to go and no one to be found who cared, help finally arrived for the Honecker’s—Pastor Uwe Holmer and his wife.

The man who had persecuted Pastor Holmer—had his phone tapped, denied his request to travel so that he could attend his father’s funeral, had his mail monitored, and his family harassed—the persecutor was now being helped by the one he had persecuted. Pastor Holmer had every reason to hate Erich Honecker, but he would not. The woman, Margot Honecker, who had denied Pastor Holmer’s children an education, was now being taught about the love of Jesus as Pastor Holmer and his wife gave her a home in her time of need.

Pastor Holmer and his wife understood that Jesus wanted them to love their enemies. Who could have been a greater enemy than Erich and Margot Honecker? So, they moved them into their home on January 31, 1990. Nobody applauded their decision. Their friends didn’t understand why they would do it. The public responded by protesting outside their home, their phone rang off the wall with angry folks on the other end, bomb threats were made, and the police said that they couldn’t guarantee the Holmer’s safety. Church members threatened to stop their giving. Pastor Holmer wrote a letter to the local newspaper explaining his actions. In the letter he wrote,

“In Lobetal,” he wrote, “there is a sculpture of Jesus inviting people to himself and crying out, ‘Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ We have been commanded by our Lord Jesus to follow him and to receive all those who are weary and heavy laden, in spirit and in body, but especially the homeless… What Jesus asked his disciples to do is equally binding on us.”

What is it that persuades a man who has been treated so unjustly, who has watched his beloved country decimated by a “minister of government” turned traitor to the mission given to him by God? It certainly wasn’t the humanitarian spirit that led Uwe Holmer and his wife to risk it all so that they could care for their enemy. They didn’t find any help in the handbook of the communists, but they found guidance and strength in the Word of God. This is why I continue to say that we desperately need these lessons from Romans 13. When the day comes when we must stand up instead of going along we will need to follow the Lord’s leading rather than the mindset of the masses.

I want to acknowledge that in Romans 13:1-7 we find no precedent for ever rebelling against those who rule over us. That has led some to reject Paul’s teaching, but instead of rejecting what Paul has written I would encourage us to take seriously what Paul has written and use it as a foundation for further study of God’s Word. As we search the whole counsel of God, the other 65 books of the Bible then you will find examples of those who stood up to those who ruled over them. What led them to rebel? If we can discover an answer to that question then I think we can get a jump on understanding when we might be led by God to say, “No!” to those who rule over us.

Turn with me to Daniel 3:12-18 and let me show you one example. Most of you have probably heard of the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—three young Jewish guys who were serving the King of Babylon while they were in exile. King Nebuchadnezzar had demanded that all of his subjects worship his gods. He even set up a huge golden statue and demanded that all the people bow down and worship it. The Jewish guys couldn’t do it and word spread about their defiance. Let’s read the Scripture together where some of Nebuchadnezzar’s officials brought him the news.

12 But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon–Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego–who pay no attention to you, O king. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.” 13 Furious with rage, Nebuchadnezzar summoned Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king, 14 and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the image of gold I have set up? 15 Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?” 16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:12-18 NIV)

Why would the guys not submit themselves to the King’s authority? He wanted them to worship something other than God. I’m pretty forgetful, but I don’t remember covering that when we were looking at the responsibilities of those who rule over us, do you? God made things pretty clear when He gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mt. Sinai. He said, 3 “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3 NIV)

There is the flip side to this story. If you will turn with me to Daniel 6:7-11. In the story about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego the king ordered his subjects to “do” something that the three young men couldn’t do. In this story we find the king order his subjects to “refrain from doing” something. Listen and let’s see what we can learn.

7 The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers and governors have all agreed that the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or man during the next thirty days, except to you, O king, shall be thrown into the lions’ den. 8 Now, O king, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered–in accordance with the laws of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” 9 So King Darius put the decree in writing. 10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 11 Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help. (Daniel 6:7-11 NIV)

In all fairness to the king, he was set up. Some of his Cabinet members were jealous of Daniel, they knew he served the Lord and prayed regularly, and they set him up. That’s a story for another study. I want you to notice that the government said, “You can’t pray.” Daniel didn’t form a picket line at the king’s palace to protest the edict—he simply continued to do what he had always done, he prayed. Daniel was also willing to suffer the consequences of his choice. He went to the lion’s den and trusted God for the outcome.

We can find examples of the “you must” and “you must not” edicts in modern-day government as well. In 1979 the Chinese government implemented the “one child policy” which limits families in urban areas of China to one child. The government implemented the policy to control the growth of the largest nation on the planet. As a result, abortions and female infanticide in China have skyrocketed. There is no doubt in my mind that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would say, “We will not bow to your policy!”

In our own country, on June 25, 1962, the Supreme Court made the decision to no longer allow America’s students to begin their day with prayer. The case, Engel vs. Vitale led the Court to examine the following prayer said by children in New York’s public schools: “Almighty God, we acknowledge our dependence on Thee and beg Thy blessing over us, our parents, our teachers and our nation.” The government said, “You will not pray” from this day forward. Daniel would have simply bowed his head and continued to do as he had always done. Kids, those of you in grade school, middle school, high school, those of you who attend college—I would encourage you to follow in the footsteps of Daniel and begin each school day by acknowledging your dependence on God and asking his blessing upon your parents, teachers, our leaders, and nation.

Let’s go to the New Testament and take a look at another prohibition. Peter and John were sharing the Gospel with those in Jerusalem, they were healing the sick in Jesus’ name, and the authorities didn’t like it. In Acts 4:18-20 we read.

18 Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. 20 For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:18-20 NIV)

Peter and the followers of Jesus defied the prohibition to refuse to even speak the name of Jesus because Jesus Himself had given them these instructions in Matthew 28:19-20.

19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)

The followers of Jesus had no choice, but to do what Jesus had commanded. Neither do we have a choice. If we are told that we can’t even speak His name, as is the case in some countries of the world this very morning, then we must obey God and be willing to suffer the consequences. In the very next chapter of Acts we see the same group of followers brought back in before the Sanhedrin. Turn to Acts 5:27-29 and let’s read together.

27 Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.” 29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men! (Acts 5:27-29 NIV)

We can easily come to the conclusion, by looking at these examples, that if our government tells us that we must worship anyone other than God then we have to say, “We must obey God!” If our government says, “You can no longer pray,” then we must respond, “We must obey God!” If our government says, “You can no longer speak about Jesus: you can’t teach the Bible, share your faith, or attribute your actions to your commitment to Jesus” then we must say, “We must obey God!”

There is another example that we need to look at this morning so that we can understand that these are not the only reasons we have for refusing to submit to those who rule over us. If you will turn with me to the book of Esther. In Esther 3:8-10 we read where Haman, one of King Xerxes’ servants, plotted to have the Jews in Persia wiped-out. He convinced the king that it was in the best interest of the nation to eradicate the Jews as quickly as possible. The king went along with it and signed the edict. A date was chosen when the Jews would be annihilated.

Esther, a young Jewish girl, had been chosen to be Xerxes’ Queen in an amazing turn of events. Esther had a cousin named Mordecai who was older than her and much more politically savvy then Esther. When he got wind of Haman’s plot he got word to Esther through her servants. Esther sent Hathach to visit with Haman who in turn gave him a copy of the edict and urged Esther to do something. Esther was hesitant because she knew that if you entered the king’s presence without being summoned that you could be killed. In Esther 4:12-14, we find the message Mordecai sent back to his cousin, Esther.

12 When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:12-14 NIV)

Esther told Mordecai to have all of the people pray and she would approach the king. Esther said, “If I die, I die.” (Esther 4:16) Long story short, Haman was hung on the gallows he had prepared for the Jews and the Jews were saved by the actions of one woman who was willing to stand up rather than go along. Esther would have been safe if she would have done nothing, but she could not stand by and watch her people annihilated without at least trying to do something.

When we see injustice taking place in our society that affects others, but has no bearing on our day-to-day life then we are tempted to keep our mouths shut. We can’t keep our mouths shut. We must speak out, but we must speak out in a way that can be heard. We are not to be disrespectful or belligerent. Neither are we to keep our mouths shut.

In Nazi Germany there was a group of pastors who saw what Hitler was doing and they began to speak out against Hitler. Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Martin Neimoeller are two of the best known pastors that I am speaking about. Neimoeller was imprisoned at one time for his defiance of the Nazis. Another minister came to visit him and reminded him that he could be set free if he would only keep his mouth shut about certain issues. The pastor then asked, “So why are you in jail?” Pastor Neimoeller responded, “Why aren’t you in jail?”

Far too many Christians are willing to sit by and watch others treated unfairly, willing to watch injustice destroy the lives of others, and not utter a single word because they believe it doesn’t affect their lives. The day will come my friend when it will. Who will be there to speak up for you on that day? Martin Neimoeller wrote these words.

In Germany they first came for the Communists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me — and by that time no one was left to speak up. (Pastor Martin Neimoeller)

We are to submit to those who govern us. We must pray for them, honor them, pay our taxes, and refuse to slander them. Sometimes, when their policies and practices go against God’s Word, we must say to them, “We must obey God!” When that time comes we must prepare ourselves to accept whatever consequences go along with our decision. In Luke 21 Jesus was speaking about the events that will unfold before He returns for His own. Listen to what Jesus said,

9 When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” 10 Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. 12 “But before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. 13 This will result in your being witnesses to them. 14 But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17 All men will hate you because of me. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish. 19 By standing firm you will gain life. (Luke 21:9-19 NIV)

Jesus hasn’t returned yet, but we all know that these very things are happening right now across the world. You and I do not know what the future holds for us, during our lifetime in the United States of America. If the day comes when we are called to stand up like Pastor Uwe Holmer, Martin Luther King Jr., Martin Neimoeller, or Pastor Laszlo Tokes in Romania will we be able to do so? Will we stand and confess, “I must obey God!” or will we shrink back and simply go along as long as it doesn’t affect us?

Prepare for the storm before it arrives. How do you prepare? Great question! You ask Jesus to come into your heart, take over the throne-room of your life, and begin His work of molding and shaping you into the man or woman that He desires for you to be. Won’t you invite Him in this very morning?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
February 7, 2010
bccpreacherman@aol.com

I have a habit of listening to preachers while I run in the morning. One of the preachers that I have come to love, even though I’ve never met him, is Matt Chandler, the Pastor of The Village Church in Flower Mound, Texas. Matt is a throwback to the old days when preachers taught the great doctrines of the faith in an unapologetic way. In a society full of churches that are becoming increasingly mesmerized by new technologies and following trendy ways to pull people through their doors, Matt’s church focuses on the proclamation of the Word of God. He is a Reformation preacher living in the 21st century.

Maybe one of the reasons I love Matt’s teaching is because of his emphasis on the Sovereignty of God. I’ve told the folks at BCC time and time again how the Sovereignty of God has been like a cradle of comfort to me during the most difficult times of my life.

Matt has encountered a “severe grace.” On Thanksgiving, Matt suffered a seizure that was shortly thereafter diagnosed as an aggressive brain tumor. In the weeks that have followed, Matt, his wife, and their three small children have nestled in the Sovereign arms of God’s mercy.

Today, after I got home from church, I sat down with my daughter, Annie, and we read Matt’s story. I told Annie, “If there is any gift that I could ever give to you that would benefit you for the rest of your life it would be a clear understanding of the Sovereignty of God.” We read about Matt and the “warm blanket” God’s Sovereignty is for he and his family as they go through this difficult journey. I told Annie, “Suffering is something that every person will do regardless of who they are, but not all people suffer the same way. Some shake their fists at God and scream out, ‘Why me?’ ‘This isn’t fair!’ or simply walk away from God. Others, like Matt and his family turn to God and fall on their faces in complete dependence upon His grace and mercy.”

I hope you will take the time to read Matt’s story. All you have to do is click on the link “Matt’s story” above and you will automatically be taken there. Even more than reading Matt’s story, I pray that you will prayerfully seek a deeper understanding of the Sovereignty of our glorious God for your own life.

In His Steps,
Mike

This week I want us to try and answer another question as we continue our study. The question I want us to address this week is “What is our responsibility, first as followers of Jesus, and secondly as citizens of this society?” We know what our governmental leaders are called to do, but what are we, the followers of Jesus, called to do in this community and nation in which God has placed us?

So far, as we have been studying Romans 12-13 we have learned some remarkable lessons about how we are to relate to various groups of people. We have learned how we are to relate to God, to our brothers and sisters in Christ, with non-believers, and even how we are to relate to our enemies, those who oppose us personally or those who oppose the cause of our Savior. The direction and counsel we have received is not based on a public opinion poll or what seems “right,” but it is rooted and grounded in God’s dealings with us. In Romans 12:1-2 we read,

1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2 NIV)

Everything we do, every single thing we do is based on this: “In view of God’s mercy…” If I do not keep in full view the radical mercy of God that has been showered upon my life in ever increasing abundance then I will naturally continue to conform to the ways of this world in regards to my relationship with others. Are you nice to me? Then I will be nice to you. Do I “like” you? Your personality? Your charisma? Do we share common interests? Then we can be friends and I will wish the best for you. If you grate on my nerves, if you do me wrong, or if I think you are a basket-case, a black hole that sucks the life out of me, then I will find every excuse to avoid you. That is the natural way to do relationships right? Paul is showing us a better way, a godly way, and he is calling us to relate to others in the same way that God relates to us.

Now we turn our attention to our relationship with those in authority over us. How do we relate to them? Do we honor those in authority when we disagree with them? Do we have to submit to them when they are not of our same political party? Well, let’s read our Scripture together and we will get started.

1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. (Romans 13:1-7 NIV)

Before we begin looking at our responsibility as followers of Jesus living under the authority of those who serve our nation as governmental leaders let me set the context for Paul’s counsel. The biblical authors did not write in a vacuum, neither did they live in some Utopian society. Paul lived under the authority of the Roman Empire. Nero was ruling as Caesar over the Empire when Paul penned this letter. Paul wrote Romans about 57 A.D. from Corinth. Nero ruled from 54-68 A.D.

During the beginning of Nero’s reign Paul and the followers of Jesus had freedom to live their lives and serve God, but towards the end of his reign Nero began an oppressive persecution that resulted in thousands of Christians being persecuted and killed for their faith. Paul would be one of those who suffered and died under the injustice of Nero. M.G. Easton, in Easton’s Bible Dictionary, writes about Paul’s final appearance before Caesar Nero.

There can be little doubt that he appeared again at Nero’s bar, and this time the charge did not break down. In all history there is not a more startling illustration of the irony of human life than this scene of Paul at the bar of Nero. On the judgment-seat, clad in the imperial purple, sat a man who, in a bad world, had attained the eminence of being the very worst and meanest being in it, a man stained with every crime, a man whose whole being was so steeped in every nameable and unnamable vice, that body and soul of him were, as someone said at the time, nothing but a compound of mud and blood; and in the prisoner’s dock stood the best man the world possessed, his hair whitened with labors for the good of men and the glory of God. The trial ended: Paul was condemned, and delivered over to the executioner. He was led out of the city, with a crowd of the lowest rabble at his heels. The fatal spot was reached; he knelt beside the block; the headsman’s axe gleamed in the sun and fell; and the head of the apostle of the world rolled down in the dust (probably A.D. 66), four years before the fall of Jerusalem. (Easton’s Bible Dictionary www.studylight.org)

So the great apostle met his death at the hands of a deranged despot, an evil emperor. Before Paul was beheaded he penned these words in the very last letter he would ever write,

6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day–and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV)

Nero lived on, for about another year, before the tide turned against him and he was declared a public enemy of the Empire. The great Roman historian, Suetonius, wrote about Nero’s death, a suicide. Listen to these words.

A runner brought him a letter from Phaon. Nero tore it from the man’s hands and read that, having been declared a public enemy by the Senate, he would be punished in ‘ancient style’ when arrested. He asked what ‘ancient style’ meant, and learned that the executioners stripped their victim naked, thrust his head into a wooden fork, and then flogged him to death with sticks. In terror he snatched up the two daggers which he brought along and tried their points; but threw them down again, protesting that the final hour had not yet come. Then he begged Sporus to weep and mourn for him, but also begged one of the other three to set him an example by committing suicide first. He kept moaning about his cowardice, and muttering: ‘How ugly and vulgar my life has become! Then, with the help of his scribe, Epaphroditos, he stabbed himself in the throat and was already half dead when a cavalry officer entered, pretending to have rushed to his rescue, and staunched the wound with his cloak. Nero muttered: ‘Too late! But, ah, what fidelity!’ (Seutonius: Nero, 49, 50)

Two men, two lives, and two deaths, but what a stark contrast. Paul was faithful to the end and looking forward to his great and glorious reward. Nero died a coward. The power hungry Caesar was stripped of everything he cherished. As we turn our attention to our responsibility to God as we relate to those in power over us let us never forget the tale of these two men.

So, just what is our responsibility to those who govern us? That is a great question. If we seek to answer that question from Romans 13:1-7 we will see that there are some very specific things we are called to do. Let me list them for you.
• We are to submit ourselves to those in authority over us out of obedience to God.
• We are to do “right” and avoid what is “wrong.”
• We are to pay our taxes.
• We are to offer them respect and honor.

The key to our relationship to those who govern us is our “submission.” It is important that we understand that important Greek word. The word, “ὑποτάσσω” (hupotasso) means, “to arrange under, to subordinate, to subject one’s self, or to obey.” The word has a background in the military. We are not Generals, but we are to honor and fall into formation under the General’s leadership. Paul was not the only one who wrote of this submission. Peter writes,

13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. (1 Peter 2:13-17 NIV)

After Paul’s imprisonment in Rome he wrote a letter to Titus from Ephesus. Titus was on the island of Crete, a rough environment in which to minister, and yet Paul tells Titus, in Titus 3:1-2.

1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. (Titus 3:1-2 NIV)

We are to honor and respect those in authority over us out of our obedience to God. We do not have to agree with someone to honor them, show them respect, refuse to slander them, and seek to do what is right as a citizen of the society in which we live. John Mac Arthur writes in his commentary on this passage of Scripture.

Believers are to be model citizens, known as law abiding not rabble-rousing, obedient rather than rebellious, respectful of government rather than demeaning of it. We must speak against sin, against injustice, against immorality and ungodliness with fearless dedication, but we must do it within the framework of civil law and with respect for civil authorities. We are to be a godly society, doing good and living peaceably within an ungodly society, manifesting our transformed lives so that the saving power of God is seen clearly. (John MacArthur, Mac Arthur’s New Testament Commentary: Romans 9-16.)

We are to submit, show honor and respect, do what is right, abide by the laws of the land, and pay our taxes. That last phrase, “pay our taxes,” has caused the hair to stand up on the neck of many of Jesus’ followers throughout the years. Today, there are folks who refuse to pay their taxes to the government because the government uses some of their money for ungodly things like funding abortions. What they fail to recognize is that the “government” Jesus was under, the Roman Empire, practiced all kinds of ungodly things in Jesus’ day and yet, when Jesus was questioned about paying taxes in Matthew 22:17-21, He had this to say.

17 Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 18 But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, 20 and he asked them, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” 21 “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matthew 22:17-21 NIV)

What you owe to Caesar, or to the government, pay them. There is not a qualifier, a loop hole, in there my friends. Those Christians who seek to find a loop hole because of the immorality of our government’s use of tax payer’s money to justify their failure to pay taxes need to study the history of the Roman Empire in which Jesus lived.

Did you know that infanticide and abortion were practiced in the Roman Empire? Roman law held that the fetus is not a person. Eusebius, the great historian, tells us in his writing, Church History, about a man named Tertullian. Tertullian was raised in Carthage, was the son of a Roman centurion, a trained lawyer, and an ordained priest. Tertullian lived from 160-220 A.D. In Tertullian’s work, Apology, he writes to non-believers in the Roman Empire. He says,

To hinder a birth is merely a speedier man-killing; nor does it matter whether you take away a life that is born, or destroy one that is coming to the birth. That is a man which is going to be one; you have the fruit already in the seed. (Tertullian, Apology)

So we can see that the followers of Jesus cherished life, from the womb to the tomb, from the earliest days. The Romans also practiced infanticide. The Twelve Tables of Roman Law stated: “An obviously deformed child must be put to death.” There was legalese in Roman law just as there is in our day and that led to various interpretations of the phrase, “obviously deformed.”
The Romans also practiced “exposure.” Exposure was simply abandoning your children. A chilling letter from a pagan husband to his wife captures the casual nature of this practice among the pagans. The husband writes, “Know that I am still in Alexandria. I ask and beg you to take good care of our baby son, and as soon as I receive payment I shall send it up to you. If you are delivered before I come home, if it is a boy, keep it, if a girl, discard it.” (Naphtali Lewis, Life in Egypt Under Roman Rule. http://tinyurl.com/yf7448q)

These practices were not condoned or condemned by Jesus in Scripture because Jesus sought to change hearts and not governments. We don’t have to quote chapter and verse to know that Jesus valued life, that He didn’t condone the mistreatment, destruction, or oppression of any people. Jesus recognized that governments don’t change people—the Gospel changes people and people are the ones who make a nation what it is.

God’s people have always lived under oppressive, ungodly governments, yet God calls us to be a blessing to those who rule over us. We are called by God to bless the leaders of our community, state, and nation. We are also called to speak out against the injustice and ungodly ways of our society, but we are to do so with respect and honor. We will take a look at this in great detail next week. Let me give you an example of how God calls His people to interact with a pagan society. In Jeremiah 29:4-7 we read about God’s people living in Babylon, a pagan nation with a pagan king. Listen to these words.

4 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” (Jeremiah 29:4-7 NIV)

Did you catch that last verse? “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” This should be the focus of our prayers—“Lord, use me to be a blessing to those in my community. Use me as an instrument of your peace in a strife-filled nation. Bless the works of my hands so that I will be of benefit to the community and even the nation.”

You may be a staunch Democrat or Republican, but you are first and foremost a follower of Jesus. You and I are to walk in His ways and not theirs. The way of politics is not the way of God. Democrats and Republicans are failing, miserably failing to be the leaders that God has called them to be. I’ve been to Washington D.C. and I’ve seen the monuments and Scriptures on buildings that remind our leaders of their calling.

Did you know that John Adams, the second president of our nation, was the first president to occupy what is today called the White House? He moved in during the final months of his presidency on November 1, 1800 before it was even completed. President Adams wrote a prayer soon after he arrived and the prayer was later etched in marble on the mantel of the fireplace in the State Dining Room of the White House by President Roosevelt. The prayer goes like this:

I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this house, and on all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof.

All of you have seen the tall Washington Monument which sits on the mall in Washington. Inside of the monument is a staircase which has 190 carved tributes donated by states, cities, individuals, and foreign governments. Among the carved tributes are these quotations from Scripture: “Holiness to the Lord” (Exodus 28), “Search the Scriptures” (John 5:39), “The memory of the just is blessed” (Proverbs 10:7) — and such invocations as, “May Heaven to this Union continue its Benefice.”

There is a statue of Moses with the Ten Commandments in the rotunda of the Library of Congress. At The Daughters of the American Revolution building there is an inscription with Proverbs 22:28 that reads, “Remove not the ancient landmark which thy fathers have set.” I could go on and on and tell you stories about the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Supreme Court Building, and much more. I share these illustrations with you to let you know that our leaders are surrounded with reminders that they answer to a higher Authority, that they are to lead under God, and yet they are failing. They are miserably failing. Democrats and Republicans are failing. We need to pray for our leaders—all of our leaders.

We are to be the best citizens in the land. If that is to be true of you and me then we don’t need to enroll in a “civics” class—we need to spend time with God. The best instruction manual for a nation, in the teaching and training of its citizens, is the Word of God. If we spend time in God’s Word and seek to be the men, women, boys, and girls that God has called to be then we will be the best citizens in the land without question. That ought to cause you and me to stop and ponder the question, “If America is a Christian nation, full of more Christians than any other nation on the planet, then why do we not see that reality lived out in day-to-day living?” Is it the governments fault? Hardly, we are failing to fulfill God’s call on our lives to be salt and light in this land. It is my prayer that this morning we will hear God calling us to Himself. Before we can ever submit to those who rule over us we must first submit to God. Won’t you acknowledge your need this morning and ask Jesus into your heart as your Lord and Master?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
bccpreacherman@aol.com
January 31, 2010

Politics and party entrenched politicians have a strangle-hold on our nation, and sadly, the Church has become entangled in the mess. The divide is so broad and the animosity so intense that the possibility of reconciliation seems to be outside the realm of possibility.

Politics and the various arms of the Body of Christ have become so interwoven that you can ask a person if they consider themselves an evangelical, liberal, or conservative Christian and almost always guess their political party. This is tragic and it does neither the cause of Christ or our society any good at all. We as the followers of Jesus are called to be the best citizens of our nation. We are called to be salt and light, the embodiment of righteousness and holiness, prayer warriors of those in office, and a blessing to our land regardless of who occupies the seat of power. This morning I pray that you will be able to clear your mind of your presuppositions of politics and political parties and give your absolute attention to God’s Word concerning our relationship to the “ministers of government.” Let’s turn to Romans 13:1-7 and we will get started.

1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. (Romans 13:1-7 NIV)

As we begin this study it is of greatest importance that we begin in the right place. If we make the mistake of starting out wrong in our study then there is no possibility of our coming to the right conclusions. Let me explain. When we want to understand truth we must begin with God. It does not matter what the topic is—God is the bedrock and cornerstone of any pursuit of truth. Some have read the Scripture that we are studying this morning and immediately asked, “So, we are to obey the State, the government, regardless of whether our leaders are godly or not?” That’s a good question, a question that needs to be addressed, but if we begin our study with that question then we are guaranteed to miss the truth of God. As I said, our study of any topic must begin with God. So let’s begin.

Scripture teaches that God is Sovereign. He is Sovereign over all. He is not just the Supreme authority and power over our lives as individuals, but He is Sovereign over nations and every leader. In 2 Kings 19:15, the godly king Hezekiah prayed,

15 And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD: “O LORD, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. (2 Kings 19:15 NIV)

The nonbeliever would say, “Well, that is one person’s perspective. Of course Hezekiah would believe that God is Sovereign since he was a person of faith. You can believe whatever you want to believe, but that does not make it true.” I can appreciate that argument. Let me give you another example.

Nebuchadnezzar was a pagan king. The great king of Babylon worshiped many gods. Nebuchadnezzar had first invaded Jerusalem and taken Daniel and many others back to Babylon in 604 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar didn’t worship the God of the Jews, he ordered his subjects to worship a golden statue that was 90 feet tall. Many believe the statue was of King Nebuchadnezzar himself. Nebuchadnezzar was arrogant to say the least. God had given him ample opportunities to learn that his power and authority were derived from the gracious hand of God. Daniel warned him to repent of his arrogance and do what was right in the eyes of God or his power would come to an end. Following Daniel’s warning, we read in Daniel 4:29-31.

29 Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, 30 he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” 31 The words were still on his lips when a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. (Daniel 4:29-31 NIV)

Immediately everything changed for Nebuchadnezzar. He was stripped of his royal authority and lived for a period of time in the open fields, like an animal. God’s humbling of Nebuchadnezzar served him well. In Daniel 4:34-35 we read,

34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation. 35 All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4:34-35 NIV)

The pagan king’s eyes were opened and he acknowledged God as the Sovereign authority over every king and every kingdom on earth. This truth of God’s Sovereignty transcends time and culture. Every king, every prince, every president, every dictator, every civic authority in every age has been placed in their position of power by the Sovereign King of all of kings. This is true even for those who do not seek Him or acknowledge Him.

The last king of Babylon, Belshazzar did not learn from the experience of king Nebuchadnezzar and had his power stripped away by the Persian king named Cyrus. Cyrus was also a pagan, not a godly man, but an instrument in the hands of God to accomplish His purpose. Listen to what the Lord says about this pagan king. Turn with me to Isaiah 45:1-6.

1 “This is what the LORD says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him and to strip kings of their armor, to open doors before him so that gates will not be shut: 2 I will go before you and will level the mountains; I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron. 3 I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. 4 For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me. 5 I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, 6 so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me. I am the LORD, and there is no other. (Isaiah 45:1-6 NIV)

This is one of the most amazing sections of God’s Word you will ever read. Cyrus, the pagan king of Persia, reigned from 559-529 B.C. He conquered the Babylonians, the destroyers of Jerusalem, He brought an end to the reign of the Babylonian king Belshazzar, and he did all of this because God empowered him.

In Isaiah 45:1, God calls the pagan king, Cyrus, “His anointed.” That is an astounding statement by God. The Hebrew word that is translated, “anointed,” is “מָשִׁיחַ” (mashiyach). The word means, “anointed” or “anointed one,” or “Messiah.” In the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, the Septuagint, the word, “χριστῷ” is used to translate this Hebrew word. You may recognize that Greek word. In the New Testament we read about the One called, “Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ,” Jesus “the Anointed,” or Jesus Christ.

How can God call Cyrus “His anointed” when he is nothing more than a pagan king? There is a very simple answer to that question. Cyrus was anointed by God to fulfill God’s purpose for him. His purpose was to bring down the arrogant Belshazzar and to benefit the people of God. As a result of this Cyrus, and all people, would know that YHWH alone is God.

I mentioned to you that one of God’s purposes for Cyrus was to benefit the people of God. In Isaiah 45:4 we read about what God said to Cyrus.

4 For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me. (Isaiah 45:4 NIV)

God raised up Cyrus “for the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen.” Where were the Jews when Cyrus was raised up by God? They weren’t in their own land. They had been taken captive. Their temple was destroyed. Their way of life had been utterly destroyed. They had been subjected to pagan worship and denied the worship of YHWH God. Their identity as a people had been shattered. Let me read to you Psalm 137 so you can get a sense of how despondent the people of God were.

1 By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion. 2 There on the poplars we hung our harps, 3 for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!” 4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD while in a foreign land? (Psalm 137:1-4 NIV)

Did you hear it? Despair. Despondency. God’s people didn’t realize that as they were weeping He was working. God was raising up a deliverer. Someone they would never dream to come to their rescue. Cyrus was not one of their own, but he was God’s minister, His “anointed.” After Cyrus had defeated the Babylonians, he wrote a letter, told the Jews they were going home, and then sent the letter with them. Flavius Josephus wrote The Jewish Antiquities about 93-94 A.D. In his book he has included a copy of the letter that Cyrus sent with the Jewish exiles on their way home. Let me read it to you.

I have given leave to as many of the Jews that dwell in my country as please to return to their own country, and to rebuild their city, and to build the temple of God at Jerusalem on the same place where it was before. I have also sent my treasurer Mithridates, and Zorobabel, the governor of the Jews, that they may lay the foundations of the temple, and may build it sixty cubits high, and of the same latitude, making three edifices of polished stones, and one of the wood of the country, and the same order extends to the altar whereon they offer sacrifices to God. I require also that the expenses for these things may be given out of my revenues. Moreover, I have also sent the vessels which king Nebuchadnezzar pillaged out of the temple, and have given them to Mithridates the treasurer, and to Zorobabel the governor of the Jews, that they may have them carried to Jerusalem, and may restore them to the temple of God. Now their number is as follows: Fifty chargers of gold, and five hundred of silver; forty Thericlean cups of gold, and five hundred of silver; fifty basons of gold, and five hundred of silver; thirty vessels for pouring [the drink-offerings], and three hundred of silver; thirty vials of gold, and two thousand four hundred of silver; with a thousand other large vessels. (3) I permit them to have the same honor which they were used to have from their forefathers, as also for their small cattle, and for wine and oil, two hundred and five thousand and five hundred drachme; and for wheat flour, twenty thousand and five hundred artabae; and I give order that these expenses shall be given them out of the tributes due from Samaria. The priests shall also offer these sacrifices according to the laws of Moses in Jerusalem; and when they offer them, they shall pray to God for the preservation of the king and of his family, that the kingdom of Persia may continue. But my will is, that those who disobey these injunctions, and make them void, shall be hung upon a cross, and their substance brought into the king’s treasury. (The Works of Flavius Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews—Book IX, translated by William Whilston)

Not only did Cyrus allow the Jews to return to their homeland, but he sent his own money with them to help rebuild the temple, the heart and soul of the Jewish people. Who would have ever dreamed it? God is the Lord of history and He is working around the world in the history of nations.

Cyrus, Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Hezekiah, President Obama, Felipe Calderon, the President of Mexico, King Albert II of Belgium, President Pohamba of Namibia, the dictator Kim Jong-il of North Korea, Shimon Peres, President of Israel, and the crazed President Mahmud Ahmadinejad of Iran are where they are, seated in the office of authority and power because of one reason—God is Sovereign over every leader in every country of this world. Hezekiah was right when he proclaimed, “You alone are God over all of the kingdoms of this earth.” (2 Kings 19:15 NIV)

Now, that raises questions doesn’t it? There is no debating that some leaders are better than others. In God’s Word we find the godly King David set against the ungodly King Saul. There is Hezekiah who cries out to God and the evil King Ahab, who did more evil than all of Israel’s wayward kings. 1 Kings tells us,

30 Ahab son of Omri did more evil in the eyes of the LORD than any of those before him. (1 Kings 16:30 NIV)

In our own country we have had 44 presidents. They have not all been good presidents. Some have been a tremendous blessing to our nation and others have done great harm yet all of them found their way into office, not because of the will of the people, but because of the Sovereign will of God.

Our God is a God of purpose. Everything He does has purpose. There is no random act of any kind concerning God. He is a God of purpose. When God calls a leader into a position of power it is for a purpose. What is God’s calling on the lives of our governmental leaders? Well, let’s find out. In Romans 13:1-7 Paul tells the followers of Jesus that they are to submit themselves to the governing authorities. Paul also has some things to say about those leaders. He describes them as God’s “ministers” or His “servants.” Read Romans 13:4; 6 with me.

4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer… 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. (Romans 13:4; 6 NIV)

In these two verses Paul uses two Greek words to describe the governing authorities that we are to submit to. In Romans 13:4, twice he uses the Greek word, “διάκονος” (diakonos). The word means, “one who executes the commands of another.” It is used of people who perform the task given to them by their master. The word can also mean a “servant,” or “deacon.” This is the word that we get our word, “deacon” from. Let me show you some places where the same Greek word is used. In Romans 16:1 we read,

1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. (Romans 16:1 NIV)

If you will turn with me to Colossians 1:6-8 we will see another example. I want to point out to you that the word is used in verse 7, but it is not translated “servant,” but “minister” in this instance. Let’s read it together.

6 …All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God’s grace in all its truth. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. (Colossians 1:6-8 NIV)

Epaphras is called a “faithful minister of Christ” on behalf of the people. The last instance that I want to show you is from the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. Turn with me to Esther 2:2 and let’s read together.

2 Then the king’s personal attendants proposed, “Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king. (Esther 2:2 NIV)

Now, can you see that when God calls someone to office as a civil servant of the nation He calls them into His service? Mayors, governors, members of congress, school board officers, and presidents are called by God to live out His purpose for their lives as shepherds of God’s people.

In Romans 13:6 there is another Greek word that is used. It is the word, “λειτουργός” (leitourgos) and it means “a public minister, a servant of the state, or a servant of the temple. In Romans 15:16, Paul describes himself as a “minister of Jesus Christ to the gentiles.” In Nehemiah we find the same word used to describe “ministering priests” in the temple. Read along with me from Nehemiah 10:39.

39 The people of Israel, including the Levites, are to bring their contributions of grain, new wine and oil to the storerooms where the articles for the sanctuary are kept and where the ministering priests, the gatekeepers and the singers stay. “We will not neglect the house of our God.” (Nehemiah 10:39 NIV)

Even though the “jobs” of the priests in the temple and King are different, there is a commonality. Even though there are differences, vast differences, between the tasks that our civil authorities have as compared to you and me as servants of God, there is a commonality. We are to serve God, to do His will where He has placed us. That is the purpose of our community, state, and federal authorities—to seek and then do the will of God.

I want to close this study by taking you to 1 Kings. When David died his son Solomon took over the throne. Solomon was a young man, his daddy was the greatest king in the history of the nation, and I’m sure Solomon was shaking in his boots. Well, Solomon had a dream one night. God appeared to him and said, “Solomon, ask for anything you want and I will give it to you. In 1 Kings 3:6-14 we can read about Solomon’s dream.

6 Solomon answered, “You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day. 7 “Now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. 8 Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. 9 So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” 10 The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. 11 So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, 12 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. 13 Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for–both riches and honor–so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. 14 And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.” (1 Kings 3:6-14 NIV)

Solmon’s dad, king David, was faithful to God, he was righteous and upright in heart. That’s a great place for any governmental authority to begin. The day they take office they should begin to pray for God to keep them faithful, righteous, and upright in heart.

Solomon could have asked for anything. He could have asked for popularity. He could have asked for wealth and honor. He could have asked for an ever-expanding kingdom. Solomon asked for wisdom. He knew he was incapable to fulfilling his responsibilities so he asked God to bless him with a “discerning heart so that he might be able to govern the people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” God responds by saying that since Solomon asked for “discernment in administering justice” instead of all of the things he could have asked for He would give him wisdom and discernment unlike anyone who has ever governed or ever will. God also said that if Solomon would walk in His ways and obey His statutes and commands that He would give him a long life.

What a model for our leaders! The tragedy is that many of our governmental authorities do not have clue what God’s will is for them. We need to pray for them. Pray that God will lead someone into their life that can teach them, challenge them, and encourage them to seek God and not the applause of their constituents. Pray for our leaders.

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
January 17, 2010
bccpreacherman@aol.com

All of these years later Joe is still Joe. Quoting Scripture, hugging necks, and oozing from every pore with passion. He has seen tough times, been through struggles and heartaches, but his passion for Jesus and his absolute confidence that “He is able” have only increased through the years. I’m so thrilled that Joe is going to be stopping by Britton Christian Church on the morning of Wednesday, January 20 to speak to all of those who will come.

6:30 am Joe Speaks to Men

Through the years Joe has spoken to hundreds of thousands of men, men of all ages, and his message is one of uncompromising commitment to Jesus and the fellowship of brothers in Christ. We want to encourage you to invite your buddies, bring your sons, and join us for an hour of inspiration and challenge.

10:00 am Joe Speaks to Moms

The title of Joe’s talk to moms is: “Dorothy Was Right! (There’s No Place Like Home)” There is no higher calling than raising children. There is no more distinguished title than that of “momma.” Yet, society for the most part doesn’t bestow the honor and gratitude upon moms that they deserve. Moms, invite all of your friends, every mother you know, and bring her so that she can be encouraged and blessed beyond belief. (Because we are expecting a large crowd we will not be able to provide childcare.)

It’s going to be a great morning.

In His Steps,
Mike

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:14-21 NIV)

If you will remember, in the first section of Romans 12 Paul gave us some great guidance about how we are to relate to our brothers and sisters in Christ�this includes those that we may not be naturally drawn to as well as those that get on our last nerve. Beginning in Romans 12:14, Paul turns his attention to those who persecute us, those who do �evil,� those who would consider themselves to be our enemies.

In Romans 12:14-21, Paul gives us 8 roadside markers to chart our course, to give us guidance as we relate to those who oppose us or those who oppose the cause of Christ. We covered the first four in our last study. Let me mention them.
1. We are to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.
2. We are to live in harmony with one another.
3. We are not to be proud, but we are to associate with those who hold no position in society, those who are forgotten and considered as unimportant.
4. We are to never repay evil with evil.

Today we will cover the last four roadside markers, reminders to us of the life we are to live and how we are to relate to those who oppose us, those who consider us as �enemies.� Take a look at verse 17 with me.

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. (Romans 12:17 NIV)

The first part of this verse was covered in our last lesson. We will begin our study today by taking a look at the second sentence in verse 17.

The fifth roadside marker: We are to be careful to do what is right in the eyes of others.

Paul says, �Be careful to do what is right�� The Greek word translated, �right,� is �?????� (kalos) and it means, �beautiful, excellent in its nature and characteristics, good, admirable, or beautiful to look at.� This verse throws many of the followers of Jesus for a loop because we know that we are only to do what is �right� in the eyes of God. It doesn�t matter if what we are doing is right in the eyes of people or not as long as it is right by God�s standard. James Montgomery Boice gives us some background on the word.

The way to understand kalos is to know that it was the word used by the Greek philosophers, especially Plato, to describe the goal of sound thinking. Usually we think of this goal as �the good,� which Plato proposed as the right pursuit of all rational beings. But if we are working in the area of aesthetics, the �good� that we are pursuing becomes, �the beautiful.� In philosophy it is �the truth.� If we are thinking of morals, it is what is �right.� If we are thinking of character, it is what is �honorable.�

The point is that this is what all people should aim at. So when Paul told the Romans that they were to �be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody,� he was saying that Christians are to lead the way in good or right things, and they are to do this always. We are to be known as those who always pursue the very best in all areas. (James Montgomery Boice, Romans: Volume 4. pg. 1614-1615.)

Is there some action, some �good� that we can engage in that is perceived by the vast majority of people as �good?� I believe there is. I know people from a wide variety of backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles. I can talk about God�s Word or matters of doctrine and theology and their response is varied. I can talk about how we pulled together to help provide 500 families in our community with Thanksgiving turkey and they all applaud. I can talk about how we worked together to provide Christmas presents for 50 kids from our neighborhood whose dad is in prison and they tear up. I tell them how we have people working at our church doing odds and ends so that they can pay their electric bill and they are amazed! I can tell them about ministering to families who have lost a loved one and they are touched to the core of their heart and soul.

In Scripture we receive encouragement to live our lives in such a way that God, as well as people, will take notice. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus let us know that there are eyes watching us, evaluating our lives. He said,

16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NIV)

Jesus didn�t say to live our lives so that other believers might take notice. He said, �Let your light shine before men, (before all people,) so that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.� We are to give great thought as to how we live so that others, especially those who do not know Jesus, might take notice of God�s work going on through us.

In 1 Corinthians 10:31-33, Paul let the people of Corinth know that he was seeking to live in such a way that his life would be pleasing to all of those who were watching him. Let�s read this Scripture together.

31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 32 Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God– 33 even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. (1 Corinthians 10:31-33 NIV)

Paul knew that he was called to live in such a way that all people would see the �good� in what he was doing. For most Christians today we are satisfied if we simply go to church on Sunday. We think we have fulfilled our obligation if we fill a pew for an hour on a Sunday morning, but for Paul, what he ate, what he drank, everything he did had purpose, and the purpose was to bring glory to God and to work for the good of all people. Paul didn�t want to be a stumbling block for anyone.

I was having lunch with a friend a few weeks ago when he asked me, �Is it a sin to drink alcohol?� I said, �No, it�s not a sin to have a drink, but it is a sin to get drunk.� I quoted Ephesians 5:18 as a reference point. Paul said, �Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.� (Ephesians 5:18 NIV) Then my friend asked, �Do you drink?� I said, �No.� He said, �But you said having a drink is not a sin.� He was puzzled. I said, �Let�s say we are having lunch today and you order a beer so I order one as well. Someone, who knows who I am, comes in this restaurant and sees a beer sitting in front of me. In their mind, is that beer number 1 or number 10? How does the human mind work?� He said, �Number 10.� Exactly. I said, �My desire to drink whatever I want to drink is not nearly as strong as my desire to never cause anyone to stumble. What is permissible for me may not be beneficial for the mission God has called me to.”

I want to share one more verse with you as we consider Paul�s statement to �be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.� Turn with me to 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12.

11 Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 NIV)

Paul is speaking to brothers and sisters in Christ, but he is giving them instructions on how they are to relate to �outsiders,� those who are not followers of Jesus. He tells the church folks to live in such a way that it gains the respect of outsiders.

Have you ever noticed how sometimes unbelievers have a better sense of how we should be living then we do? They can spot a hypocrite from a mile away. Have you ever heard an outsider say, �He calls himself a Christian?� when one of his church buddies acts in a way that betrays the lifestyle of Jesus? Or, have you ever witnessed an unbeliever reach out and help someone who was going through a tough time while her Christian friend sought an escape route by saying that she would have to pray about what to do?
They aren�t followers of Jesus, but in some ways they sure understand His heart better than many of us do. They mock churches that spend millions of dollars on elaborate, ornately decorated buildings because they wonder out loud if Jesus would spend His money on such things. They are repulsed at preachers who prey on the emotions of people to get what they want. Folks, there is a watching world fixed on you and me and we are to be thoughtful about how we live this life. We are to live in such a way that the most hardened atheist respects how we live.

The sixth road marker is that we are to live at peace with everyone, as much as it depends on us.

This is such a fascinating verse to me because many Christians, who are unfamiliar with the Bible, view biblical times as a utopian period of history. People got along better, there weren�t the kind of worries present that worry us, and God was �more� present in the world. These same people look at those we read about in God�s Word as somehow different than us. They talk about the Apostle Paul like he was somehow different than the rest of us.

Paul was no idealist, he lived in the midst of strife, constant opposition, and turmoil, and yet he recognized that God had a purpose in it all. Paul knew that he lived in a broken world and that is why he wrote,

18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18 NIV)

In Matthew 5:19, Jesus said, �Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.� We should never be the source of strife, contention, or division�we are called to be peacemakers. Paul adds, �If it is possible, as far as it depends on you�� There are some people who simply do want to live at peace with those around them. Their behavior is not an excuse for us to become contentious or argumentative or filled with hate. We are to make every effort to live at peace with those around us.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was known for his passive resistance. He could not go along with the injustices that he saw taking place in this country, but he would not fight fire with fire, he fought the hate-filled oppressors with love. On July 4, 1965, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke these words.

To our most bitter opponents we say: �We shall match your capacity to inflict suffering by our capacity to endure suffering. We shall meet your physical force with soul force. Do to us what you will, and we shall continue to love you. We cannot in all good conscience obey your unjust laws because noncooperation with evil is as much a moral obligation as is cooperation with good. Throw us in jail and we shall still love you. Bomb our homes and threaten our children, and we shall still love you. Send your hooded perpetrators of violence into our community at the midnight hour and beat us and leave us half dead, and we shall still love you. But be ye assured that we will wear you down by our capacity to suffer. One day we shall win freedom but not only for ourselves. We shall so appeal to your heart and conscience that we shall win you in the process and our victory will be a double victory.� (Martin Luther King, Jr., Strength to Love. Fortress Press. 1981.)

We are to love even those who absolutely refuse to live at peace with us. This ability to love those who oppose us is outside the realm of possibility for you and me, but “greater is He who lives in us than he who lives in this world.” (1 John 4:4)

The seventh road marker: We are to leave room for God�s wrath rather than to make room for our own.

In Romans 12:19, Paul writes,

19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. (Romans 12:19 NIV)

Next week we will turn our attention to Romans 13 and we will learn about the role of civil authorities in society and our relationship to them. I mention that so that you will know to come back next week and see that God holds people accountable for their actions. He has ordained our civil authorities to do just that�to hold lawbreakers accountable. Today, we are not talking about the governmental authorities; we are talking about the Body of Christ and our relationship to those who oppose us, those who do evil. Paul says that we are never to avenge ourselves. We do not take the law into our own hands.

This biblical truth is personified in Jesus. Throughout His life Jesus was opposed, He was mocked, they beat Him, ridiculed Him, and hung Him on a cross. How did He respond? When they came to arrest Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, Simon Peter drew his sword and cut off the ear of one of the servants of the high priest. Jesus said,

53 Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? (Matthew 26:53 NIV)

With that Jesus allowed them to take Him away. Why do we not retaliate with force? Why do not simply fight fire with fire? Because Jesus didn�t retaliate in these ways. Jesus came into a world that was dead set against Him and He loved it to His last breath. We are to go and do likewise.

This teaching was not new with Jesus. In the Hebrew Bible we read about the way of love. Listen to Leviticus 19:18.

18 Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. (Leviticus 19:18 NIV)

Instead of seeking revenge we are to seek to love our neighbor. Instead of holding a grudge against those who treat us unfairly or who mean us harm we are to love them. In Romans 12:20 Paul gives us some examples of how we can demonstrate God�s love to our enemies. He writes,

20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” (Romans 12:20 NIV)

Ferdinand Marcos and his wife Imelda were dictators of the worst stripe. Ferdinand was President of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986 and with each passing year his greed grew greater while his love for the people diminished. In 1973, Marcos� two term limit as President would expire and the Filipino people would be free of his power hungry ways.

Waiting in the wings was the people�s leader, Benigno Aquino. Aquino had accomplished much: He became the mayor of Concepcion in 1955 at age 22. When he was just 28 he was elected Governor of the Tarlac Province. At age 35, Benigno Aquino was elected senator, the youngest ever. Aquino was excited about running for President once Marcos� presidency came to a close.

Marcos, always on the grab for more power, had Benigno Aquino arrested and declared martial law. He took total control over the Philippines. Aquino was held in prison for eight long years. His health failed until President Jimmy Carter intervened so that he could leave the country and undergo open heart surgery.

After his surgery and rehabilitation period, Benigno Aquino took a teaching fellowship at Harvard University. He could have lived out his life in the luxury of America, but God was calling Aquino back to his home, back to where the Filipino people were suffering.

On August 21, 1983 Benigno Aquino boarded a jet and headed to Manilla. He tried to keep his flight a secret, but when he boarded the plane he was swamped with journalists. When the jet landed in Manilla the people saw a blue van pull up and soldiers carrying automatic weapons circled the plane. Seconds after he stepped off the plane�Aquino was shot and killed. Marcos� people said communist gunmen did it, but everyone knew who killed Benigno Aquino.

Why would God call a man to die? Wasn�t Benigno Aquino�s life wasted? Wouldn�t his people had been better served if Aquino would have simply spoken out for them? God�s ways are not our ways.

Two million people lined the streets for Aquino’s funeral and Cardinal Jaime Sin delivered a powerful sermon and then predicted to himself, “This is the beginning, when the eyes of the people will be opened.” The people’s eyes did begin to open and at a rally staged by Marcos, to boost his inflated ego, there were banners in support of Aquino everywhere.

Cardinal Sin sent pastoral letters criticizing the government for human-rights abuses; these were read in every Catholic church in the Philippines. Yet the Cardinal made it clear that he did not speak for the opposition party, but he spoke for God! Cardinal Sin informed Ferdinand Marcos that the people would organize for the next election. He went to Benigno Aquino�s grieving wife, Corazon Aquino, and asked her to run for President. Cory Aquino felt God leading her so she said, �Yes.�

Marcos� military didn�t try to hide that they would throw the election. They bought ballots, forced people away from voting, and stole ballot boxes. Marcos won. Cory Aquino held a protest rally on February 16 in Manilla. Well over one million people gathered and chanted, “Cory, Cory!” At the protest rally Corazon Aquino did not send the people to storm the palace of Ferdinand Marcos, but she did call them to a day of prayer and a series of non-violent protests — boycotting certain banks and businesses owned by Marcos.

Marcos called his troops to attack the opposition. Tanks and trucks filled the streets�and so did God�s people. The little villages were filled with people holding crosses, others offering flowers or water, and prayer. No one threw rocks, fired a gun, or hurled insults at the soldiers.

Marcos� military was greatly affected. On February 22, 1986, the Minister of Defense, Juan Ponce Enrile, could no longer support the twisted President so he and General Fidel Ramos held a press conference announcing their support of Cory Aquino. Ferdinand Marcos was going to come after them with force. Cardinal Sin got on the airwaves and called God�s people to go to Camp Crame and Camp Aquinaldo and support Enrile and Ramos. He said, �Protect them and bring them food; they have nothing to eat.�

Four days after Enrile and Ramos held their press conference, Ferdinand Marcos and his wife, Imelda, fled the country and the people of God, who stood by the side of justice and rights for all of God’s people claimed the victory for God. Two and one half years after Benigno Aquino was killed, his wife Cory became the first female President.

The last road side marker for us is to never be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good.

Evil holds no power over those who are in Christ. We must overcome evil by following in Jesus� steps. I�ve told you the stories of Johnny Lee Clary and Wade Watts. You know the story of Martin Luther King Jr. You now know the story of Benigno Aquino and Ferdinand Marcos. Each and every week I share with you the story of Jesus, our Risen, Victorious Savior. Evil shall never prevail. Never. Don�t allow the opponents of the cause of Christ to draw you into their diabolical ways. Never stoop beneath who God has called you to be. You and I are more than conquerors through Him who has loved us. We are not conquerors because of our might, our military strength, or intellectually aptitude�we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Now, let us love the world.

It all begins at the cross my friends. If Christ does not live in you, if He is not Lord and Master of your life, then all of this is empty talk, an impossibility for you. Won�t you invite Him in and allow Him to do a work in you that you can�t even imagine?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
January 10, 2010
bccpreacherman@aol.com

Being from Oklahoma, the injury to Colt McCoy and his having to watch from the sidelines reminded me of Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford’s senior season–a season of disappointment. What also reminded me of Sam Bradford was Colt’s response to his disappointment. Following the game, Colt said,

“Standing on the Rock.” When the Horns win, when winning the Walter Camp Football Foundation’s Player of the Year Award, when losing the Heisman for the second year in a row, when making it into the National Championship game, and even when he got knocked out the National Championship game on the very first drive he’s still “Standing on the Rock.” Not questioning God, but standing on the Rock.” Now, there’s a lesson we all need to learn.

The past couple of years we’ve had the opportunity to watch three great college quarterbacks in Sam Bradford, Tim Tebow, and Colt McCoy. Great athletes, incredible competitors, champions in every sense of the word. What is even more important is that these three young guys have a passion and a commitment to Jesus Christ that transcends “winning.” They’ve “stood on the Rock” through winning and losing, trials and triumphs.

I would encourage you to go to Iamsecond.com and watch the videos of Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy. I’ve posted Colt’s below.

I do remember the gifts Santa gave me and there are three that stick out in my mind more than any of the others. Are you ready? They were some great gifts! I remember getting an electric football set. I remember setting up all of the players on that metal playing field, tucking a felt football under my running back�s arm, and then I hit the power switch. The vibration caused by the little motor shook the field with such force that sometimes players would just fall over like an earthquake had hit Duncan. I played so much football that I wore that little motor out. I remember getting Rock �Em Sock �Em Robots one Christmas and spending hours trying to knock the block off of anyone who would play me. Last of all, I remember when I got older, Santa brought me my favorite gift of all time�Pong! It was a video game. Way better than an Xbox or a PS3!! You hooked it up to the television, turned it on, and there were two white blocks with a center line drawn down the middle of the t.v. screen. Another little block of white would bounce back and forth from one side of the screen to the other and you would hear a �click� every time you knocked it back at your opponent. Man, did we have fun back in the day!!

Well, the passage of time has made every single one of my favorite gifts obsolete. Football games, boxing games, and every other sort of game have far surpassed the ancient versions I had 40 years ago. I�ve been thinking of that this past week and I�ve come to the conclusion that�s just the way it is with much of the stuff that we treasure at various times in our lives. It doesn�t really matter what �stuff� you are talking about, the new models just keep getting better and better. I remember when David Darnell got his first computer when I was working in Plano. He had a 40 megabyte hard drive! David said, �I will never be able to fill this thing up.� I remember my first transistor radio do you? How does that compare with an iPod? Can you remember your old VHS player? Would you trade it for a Blu Ray player if I offered it to you tonight? You better believe you would! I could go on and on couldn�t I. The newer versions just keep getting better and better.

With all of that said there are some gifts that never grow old, as a matter of fact, they get better with age. James said,

16 Don�t be deceived, my dear brothers. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:16-17 NIV)

�Every good and perfect gift is from above.� Oh if we could remember this profound statement each and every day when we crawl out of bed and begin our day then our days would be filled with wonder and awe my friends. The heaviness that so many experience would be lifted by the gracious gratitude that comes from understanding that everything in life is a gift from Almighty God. The emptiness that so many experience would be filled with a fullness beyond measure. The grumbling and griping that flows from our mouths would be transformed into words of gratitude to the Lord. Every good and perfect gift is from God and they don�t rust out, wear out, or become old and out-dated. There are so many wonderful gifts that we could talk about tonight, but I just want to unwrap a few for us.

First of all, let�s talk about the love that God has showered upon us. Love is such an elusive thing isn�t it? When we talk about the love we give and receive we have to admit that our love is conditional. If you behave in a certain way then you will be loved by those around you, but pity the person who doesn�t act right. Right? Listen to a few verses about God�s love. Paul wrote, in Romans 8:38-39.

38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39 NIV)

Paul wasn�t the only one who wrote about the wondrous love of God. John understood very well how God�s love is so very different than the love that we are accustomed to experiencing in this life. That is why he wrote,

10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. (1 John 4:10 NIV)

You see, it wasn�t when we were at our best that God showed His love for us�it was when we were at our worst. Paul wrote,

8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)

I am convinced that when I first became a follower of Jesus I didn�t really understand God�s love. You couldn�t have convinced me back then, but after walking with God for 30 years I can make that statement. The longer you walk with God the more you treasure the unfathomable, incomprehensible love of God. It�s like being married. I loved Connie when we were first married. I was crazy about her in every sense of the word, but now that we�ve been married for 27 years our love is so different, so much deeper. We�ve been through it�together. Going through �it� has bonded my heart to hers in an indescribable way. The longer you walk with the Lord the more you will experience that bond that transcends words.

There is a second gift that has gotten sweeter with time and it is the forgiveness of God. Forgiveness is such a unique quality of God. I�m not talking about saying you forgive someone. I�m talking about forgiving and never holding it against them and never even bringing it up again. Listen to this.

8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. 9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; 10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:8-12 NIV)

I love the prophet Micah. He�s called a �minor� prophet, but there is nothing minor about Micah�s message. In Micah 7:18-20 we read about the God who will cast our sins into the depths of the ocean. Listen to this.

Where is the god who can compare with you�wiping the slate clean of guilt. Turning a blind eye, a deaf ear, to the past sins of your purged and precious people? You don’t nurse your anger and don’t stay angry long, for mercy is your specialty. That’s what you love most. And compassion is on its way to us. You’ll stamp out our wrongdoing. You’ll sink our sins to the bottom of the ocean. (Micah 7:18-20 The Message)

Someone here tonight has been wrapped up in guilt for far too long. Tonight you need to know that you can unwrap God�s glorious gift of forgiveness and know that you are forgiven because of the gift of God�s Son, Jesus, our Savior.

The third gift that has grown sweeter over time for me is the gift of hope. I have to tell you that tonight this gift is especially sweet to me because of some news I got this past week. My grandmother is 85 years old. She�s a farm girl and tougher than nails. My sister went down to spend some time with her last summer and my grandmother wore her out running all over town. Granny hasn�t been feeling too good recently and she�s gone to the doctor to see if they might figure out what�s going on. This past week I got news that she has acute Myelogenous Leukemia. A nasty form of leukemia and things don�t look good at all.

I was talking to my grandmother on the phone the day she received her diagnosis and we were talking about how it feels when you get the news that your life is quickly drawing to a close. I said, �Granny, can you imagine hearing that news and not having the hope of heaven.� She said, �I can�t imagine what that would be like.� Then I shared with her Paul�s words from 1 Corinthians 15:19.

19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. (1 Corinthians 15:19-20 NIV)

God has given us His Son to bring us salvation. The pivotal moment of my life was the day I surrendered to Jesus as Master of my life. Many of the decisions I have made since that day�the woman I married, the way Connie and I have chosen to raise our kids, what I would do as a profession, the way view people, the way I�ve tried to be a friend�all of those have been influenced by that one decision. I can�t adequately explain Jesus� influence on my life to you, but I will tell you this�as much as He has influenced and shaped my life�He has made an even greater mark on my view of the end of life. I love my grandmother. I would love to spend another 50 years with her, but heaven is drawing close and I am so excited for her! Sad for me, but excited for her.

The older I get, the closer I draw to the end of my own life, the sweeter my hope becomes. He is my hope. This life is filled with sorrow and heartache. We suffer not just from our own heartache and sorrow, but we suffer alongside of those we love in their heartache as well. We have to remind ourselves of our glorious hope. The Psalmist wrote to himself.

10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Psalm 42:10-11 NIV)

Last of all, God�s greatest gift is the One who has demonstrated God�s love, forgiveness, and hope to us�Jesus. Even the mention of His name should cause us to well up with gratitude. With each passing day, God�s gift of His son grows sweeter and sweeter. How can I describe Him for you? How do you even begin to describe the Indescribable? Oh, Jesus, You are�
The Babe of Bethlehem�s manger,
The Christ on Calvary�s hill,
The Author and Finisher of my Faith,
The Alpha and Omega,

You are…
The Bread of life,
The Bright and Morning Star,

You are…
The Creator of the Heavens and the Earth,
And the Comforter of my soul.

You are…
The Deliverer from Evil,
And the Defender of my soul.

You are …
The Exceeding Great Reward for believers,
And the Everlasting Father,

You are…
The Friend that sticks closer than a brother,
And the Fortress of my soul.

You are…
The Good Shepherd that gives His life for His sheep,
And the Great High Priest,

You are…
The Helper of the widow and the fatherless,
And the Healer of my soul.

You are…
The Image of the Invisible God,
And the One Isaiah called, �Immanuel.�

You are…
The Justifier of all those who trust in You,
And the Judge of all the nations.

You are…
The King of Kings and Lord of lords,
And The King of Glory,

You are…
The Lamb of God,
The Lion of the tribe of Judah,
And the Light of the world.

You are…
The Messiah, the Man of Sorrows,
And You are the Merciful Savior.

You are…
The Name above every name,
And the Never failing Lover of those who trust in You.

You are…
The Only begotten of the Father,
The Only mediator between God and man,

You are…
The Prince of Peace,
The Pearl of Great Price,
And my Portion forever.

You are…
The Quiet Place to those who seek Your face,
And the Quencher of all of those who thirst.

You are…
The Resurrection and the life,
And the Rock of my salvation.

You are…
The Stone that the builders rejected,
The Shield of our Salvation,
And the Strength of my soul.

You are…
The our Strong Tower,
The Truth,
And the Teacher of all that is true.

You are…
The Unblemished Lamb of God,
And the Unchangeable friend.

You are…
The Vine,
And our Very help in our time of need.

You are…
The Way, the Wisdom of God, the Word of God,
The Wonderful Counselor,
And the Lamb who is Worthy of our praise. (adapted from danryker.com)

He is the indescribable gift of God given to people just like you and me. He didn�t come for those who have it all together; He came for those of us who are a mess. He didn�t come for the spotless saint, He came for the broken sinner. He is God�s gift. Won�t you receive God�s Christmas gift to you this Christmas Eve?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
December 24, 2009

“The weather outside is frightful!” No doubt!! We are still going to go forward with the Christmas Eve Service tonight at 6 pm for those who want to join us. Be safe.

In His Steps,
Mike

The New Year is quickly approaching and many folks are thinking about some of the changes they would like to see in their lives in the upcoming year. I want to encourage you to make resolution #1: Getting in God’s Word.

I have heard so many people talk about their frustration with themselves in not being able to consistently read God’s Word. Like anything in life that we want to make a consistent part of our life, we need help. Stop and think about it–if you are not use to exercising and you decide that you want to become active–you need help. You need a plan and you need accountability. If you have been undisciplined in your finances and you decide that you want to develop financial discipline–you need help. You need a plan and you need accountability. And so it is with developing consistency in staying in God’s Word. We need a plan and we need accountability.

I’ve got good news for you. The folks at Youversion have just implemented “Daily Reading Plans” as part of their online Bible program. I want to encourage you to click on the link I’ve provided for you, register to be part of the community, and then choose a plan, any plan, and follow it to the end. I would encourage you to begin with a 30 Day plan, something you can try to get your feet wet before launching out into a longer, more demanding plan. At the same time, find a friend, someone who wants to develop discipline in reading God’s Word as well, and the two of you commit to doing it together. You won’t regret it.

In His Steps,
Mike

After I posted the first video last week of the kids from Life Change Ball Room there were threats to hunt me down if I didn’t share more. Here’s another clip from the incredible kids doing their thing last week at the Life Change Ball Room Dance Competition at Rose State University in Midwest City.

Merry Christmas,
Mike

The Christmas Cha Cha from Mike Hays on Vimeo.

It was another wonderful Sunday at Britton Christian Church. I was so blessed to hear Jahruba Lambeth and his version of Psalm 139! Several years ago Jahruba sang Psalm 133, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity!” The Psalms are meant to be sung and the Lord has given Jahruba a gift in teaching us how to sing them! David would have given you a standing “O” brother!

At the end of our service we welcomed some new families to BCC. I hope you will go out of your way to welcome Christy Davis and her kids, Zachary and Meghan, Chuck and Tonya Tootle and their kids, Nathaniel, Austin, and Tammy, Christine Anderson, and Tammy Anderson. Tammy Anderson came forward to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of her life. I will be meeting with Tammy this week and planning her baptism in the near future.

Christmas Eve Service, Thursday at 6 pm.

Christmas is this week. Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year for many, but for some this is a very difficult time of the year. Loved ones have gone home to be with the Lord, jobs have been lost, division and disagreements will keep some from joining the celebration. Christmas can be a very lonely time, but it doesn’t have to be. I want to invite everyone to join us on Thursday at 6 pm at Britton Christian Church for our Christmas Eve Service. Regardless of whether you attend with your family, friends, or you are all alone–you belong. That is the message of Christmas! God has come to us–to the broken, the lonely, the lost, and hopeless. He has come to save us from ourselves and make us very own. You are loved my friends. Come and worship!

In His Steps,
Mike

I was reading an article this past week from the National Retail Federation that led me to believe that this Christmas was going to be very different than all of the Christmas� before. Let me read you a snippet and see if you come to the same conclusion. The article is called, �Economy to Impact Two-Thirds of Families this Holiday Season.� (http://tinyurl.com/ylefrhp) The title kind of gives it away huh? Here�s just a sampling.

It comes as no surprise that the economy was an overriding theme throughout this year�s survey. Two-thirds of Americans (65.3%) say the economy will affect their holiday plans this year, with the majority of these consumers saying they�re adjusting by simply spending less (84.2%). People will also be shopping for sales more often (55.0%), using more coupons (41.7%) and putting up last year�s decorations (34.0%). Many Americans will also make changes in gift-giving, planning to buy more practical gifts (36.0%), buying a joint gift for kids or parents (17.3%), and making more gifts (16.7%). Additionally, more than one-fourth of Americans (28.6%) say the economy is forcing them to travel less or not at all for the holidays.

I haven�t been to the mall, but the article led me to believe that it was probably empty. That was until I read that even with all of these indicators showing that folks would be spending less, Christmas spending is projected to be $437 billion this year. 437 BILLION DOLLARS!!

Now, I don�t want you to think that I�m an advocate of canceling Christmas, burning shopping lists, and giving the tree to Goodwill. I love Christmas. I love the songs, the lights, the get-togethers, the Christmas Eve service here at BCC, and I love to give. I�m not an advocate of canceling Christmas, but I�ve become an advocate of creative Christmas giving. We, as Christians, need to think outside the box. We need to think of ways that we can give which reflect who we are and who we are called to be as followers of Jesus.

Here�s a question that has been running through my head��How can Connie and I honor those we love and help those who need help?� I didn�t come up with this on my own. I was running one morning and listening to a sermon by one of my favorite preachers, Francis Chan. Francis said,

The average American will spend $832 just for Christmas day�on decorations, food, and presents. $832. Meanwhile, on the planet, there are 3 billion people who make less than $2 a day. So those 3 billion people, if they work every single day of the year, they will make $732 a year. Full time. Every day. 3 billion people live on less than $732 a year. We spend $832 on one day, on stuff we don�t need. It�s crazy. But it becomes normal to us. We just go �well we live in America. That�s what we do.� I hope that we as believers take these things into account and live differently. I was challenged a couple of years ago, actually by one of the professors at our college, about some of my thinking as to some of the things that I was thinking about. We were talking about a certain issue when he said, �how much of your beliefs are American and how much of your beliefs are biblical?� Aren�t they the same thing? �Until you get alone with this Book, get alone with God, you don�t realize how much you are influenced by other things. And suddenly it makes sense to us to spend that amount of money on one day when half of the world is living on less than that amount for the whole year. It�s normal to us, but would it be if we had a biblical mindset? (Francis Chan, Beware of Good Liars.)

Canceling Christmas and vowing to never give gifts is the antithesis of Christmas. We serve God. He is the �Giver of every good and perfect gift.� (James 1:17) In Romans 11 and 12 we read about the gifts that God has given to His people�all of His people. In 2 Corinthians 9:9 we read,

9 As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” (2 Corinthians 9:9 NIV)

You know what is really interesting about the Scripture in 2 Corinthians 9:9? Most of the time, when we hear that verse, we interpret it to mean that God has �scattered abroad His gifts to the poor.� The verse is a quote from Psalm 112:9. Let me read it to you from Psalms, in context, and then you tell me �who� is scattering their gifts to the poor. Here we go.

5 Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his affairs with justice. 6 Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever. 7 He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 8 His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. 9 He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor, his righteousness endures forever; his horn will be lifted high in honor. (Psalm 112:5-9 NIV)

Now, tell me, who is the Psalmist talking about? God? Or is he talking about the person who is walking with God, a righteous person, a person whose heart is fixed on God, trusting in the LORD? It�s quite clear isn�t it? Sure it is. We are to be givers. If you are a follower of Jesus then your very nature is to give. The more you come to understand Jesus the more you will give. Please don�t hear me saying that giving is equivalent to, or defined solely as, �money.� That is certainly part of giving. I�ve learned from experience that the more I become attached to Jesus, the less I am attached to money and stuff. The more I allow Him to draw me to Himself, the less I am drawn to the mad American mindset of accumulating more and more. The more I realize what He has given to me, the more I want to give to others, but giving encompasses so much more than just money.

I want to be able to give in such a way that meets needs. I want to use the money God has entrusted to Connie and me to meet needs. I want to offer my gifts and abilities to help meet needs. I want to use my time in such a way that helps to meet needs. Before you can do that you have to know what the needs are, right? We can ask folks, �What do you need?� but most of the time you will hear what they want rather than what they need. It is overwhelming when you stop to consider the needs of the folks around you isn�t it? I think people�s needs fit into one of two categories: Spiritual and physical.

I could list for you all of the people that I have met with or talked to in the past week and describe for you the needs they have that we talked about. Each and every one of them falls into one of the two categories that I�ve just listed for you. They come to talk to me, but I am not the one they are looking for�they are looking for Jesus. Some don�t even realize it, some would deny it, but I will assure you that they are looking for Jesus. Let me explain.

Jesus described Himself as �the light of the world.� I will show you those places in Scripture where He does so in just a minute, but for now take my word for it. The �Light� was constantly shining into dark hearts, chaotic hearts, turbulent hearts, lost and broken hearts.

The spiritual and physical needs of us all oftentimes unleash chaos into our lives�it is only God�s �Light� that can bring order out of chaos. Let me show you an example of this. Turn with me to Genesis 1.

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. (Genesis 1:1-3 NIV)

The earth was �formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep�� The Hebrew phrase “????? ???????” (tohoo wavohoo) means, �chaotic, confusion, empty, disorder.� And that was the state of creation before God spoke. Look what follows. God speaks into the chaos. He says, �Let there be light.� When the light shines order proceeds out of chaos. Out of the disorder and chaos God brings about order. What is true for the Cosmos it equally true for our lives as individuals. When the Light shines into our chaotic and confusing lives order begins to come forth like never before.

At Christmas time we always hear, �Jesus is the Light of the World.� We light candles and sing carols, we have Advent wreaths with candles representing Jesus as the light of the world, and we read the Scripture from Isaiah 9 which says,

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV)

The announcement came to the world that change was on the way. A Child is born. Unlike any child who would ever be born. Before the prophecy of Jesus� birth there is another Scripture in Isaiah 9 that I want you to see. Take a look at verse 2 with me.

2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. (Isaiah 9:2 NIV)

The world was shrouded in darkness until the Light came. When the Light comes everything changes, but without the Light people will continue to stumble in the dark. Turn with me to John 8 and let me show you a real life example of what I�m talking about.

3 The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4 and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” 6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 11 “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” 12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:3-12 NIV)

The woman wasn�t an �alleged� adulteress. She was caught in the act. She has a problem. It�s not a physical problem, although if they would have been allowed to stone her then her problems would have also been physical. She has a spiritual problem. I don�t know her whole story, but I know the stories of many people who live outside of God�s design for sexual intimacy. A man or woman who lives within God�s design for sexual intimacy will experience order in that aspect of their life, but once we step outside of God�s design we step into the darkness and disorder and chaos will break forth with a vengeance. Have you been following the continuing saga of Tiger�s chaos lately? Do I need to say any more?

When we seek to use anything to fill the void, the emptiness inside us, other than God, then chaos is guaranteed to follow. When we live outside of God�s design for life then chaos is sure to come. This is a spiritual problem. What the woman caught in adultery needed was for the Light to shine into her darkened understanding that something other than God could meet her deepest needs. What she needed was for the Light to draw her back into God�s design for her life. Jesus told her that He didn�t condemn her then He said, �Go now and leave your life of sin.� What follows that statement is most important. We read,

12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 NIV)

If we follow Jesus we will never walk in darkness because His light will lead us. The more we follow Him, the closer we stay to Jesus, the less we will find ourselves stumbling in the dark. Have you found that to be true in your life?

The truth of the matter is that there are many, oh so many, all around us who are living in the dark. Don�t be fooled by their outer appearance. They may look like they�ve got it all together, but they are wrapped in utter darkness. They need the Light.

Now turn with me to the next chapter of John, John 9. Here is a man with a physical need. The man was born blind. Let�s read the story.

1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. 4 As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6 Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. 8 His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” 10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they demanded. 11 He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.” 12 “Where is this man?” they asked him. “I don’t know,” he said. 13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14 Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. 15 Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” 16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?” So they were divided. 17 Finally they turned again to the blind man, “What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” The man replied, “He is a prophet.” 18 The Jews still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. 19 “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” 20 “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. 21 But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. 23 That was why his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.” 24 A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. “Give glory to God, ” they said. “We know this man is a sinner.” 25 He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (John 9:1-25 NIV)

The man had his need met. His sight was restored, but more importantly than his vision being restored the man�s eyes were opened to the Light. As his physical need was being met, he was able to see Jesus for who He truly is. The religious leaders were having a great debate about who Jesus really was. Is He a �sinner?� Is He from God? The man said, �Whether he is a sinner or not, I don�t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!� This man opened my eyes!!

Isn�t that principle still true today? I can�t tell you how many stories I�ve gathered through the years of folks who have come to know Jesus because there were caring followers of Jesus who were willing to meet them at their point of need and help. In Matthew�s Gospel Jesus speaks to His followers and says,

14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16 NIV)

�You are the light of the world.� Don�t look at your neighbor. He�s talking to you. He�s talking to me. The things that Jesus did we are to do. We are to reach out to those who are walking in darkness, those who are stumbling through life, those who are lost with no light to guide their way. We are to point them to Jesus. We are to show them Jesus.

We are to reach out to those who have real physical needs and help. We are to visit them, pray with them, support them, walk with them, and lead them to the Light. Where were we before the Light came on in our lives? Where would we be this very morning if it were not for the Light continuing to shine into our lives?

I want to close where I began. What are we to give this Christmas? I believe that we are to wrap the grace, mercy, and peace of our Savior in our acts of love, generosity, and devotion. We are to be the light of the world. We are to pray and work so that those who don�t know the Lord will come to know Him. We are to pray and work so that those who are hurting find comfort, those who are grieving find solace, and those who are hungry, thirsty, homeless, and lost will find relief from what ails them.

I believe there are people right here this morning who need the Light to shine in their own life. Why not celebrate Christmas early? Just as Jesus reached out to the woman caught in adultery and restored her to God, He can do the same thing for you. Just as Jesus reached out to the blind man and met his need, He will meet your needs as well. Will you invite Him in?
Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
Oklahoma City, OK. 73114
December 20, 2009

Since I posted the pictures and video of The Life Change Ballroom Dancers the number of visitors to our blog has gone through the roof! Doesn’t surprise me at all. I’ve watched the videos I shot at the competition on Tuesday night over and over again.

I’m going to continue to post more of the videos over the next few days, but if you would like a “sneak peak” at all of the videos that will eventually show up here then you can go to the Vimeo website and see them all. (Just click on “Vimeo” and it will automatically take you there.) Once you get to the website click on the “search box” it will give you choices for your search. You want to click on “Channels.” Then type in “Britton Christian Church.” When you hit “enter” you will see all 8 videos ready for you to view.

In His Steps,
Mike

Last night I shared a couple of pictures with you from my trip to watch the Life Change Ballroom Dance Competition at Rose State University on Tuesday night. Tonight I want to share a video clip of Life Change kids from our community. They were the highlight of the whole wonderful night for me. These kids are ready for Dancing With The Stars!

In His Steps,
Mike

Cindy Pipkin and the Life Change Ballroom Dancers from Mike Hays on Vimeo.

Hi Everyone,

Tonight I had one of the biggest thrills I’ve had in a looooong time! I got to go with our Middle School Learning Center tutors and kids to watch the Ballroom Dancing Competition at Rose State University in Midwest City. Cindy Pipkin and Tami Bramel, from BCC, are being used by God in an incredible way in the lives of many many kids across Oklahoma City. I watched 5th graders from Britton Elementary, Western Village, Millwood, Mark Twain, Quail Creek, West Nichols Hills, and other Oklahoma City schools compete in six different forms of dance. They did the salsa, merengue, swing, and much more. The kids were phenomenal!! Their teachers and mentors are my newest heroes!

At the end of the night, just before they handed out the awards for the best dance groups, the “crown jewel” of the dancers took the stage–The Life Change Ballroom Dancers from our church! You can visit their homepage by clicking on the link. They will blow you away! I can’t put into words the emotion I felt and the pride that oozed from every pore of my being as I watched Emmitt, Tre, Kiki, Qua, DaQuan, Aaron, and the rest of the crew. I got to share in the baptism of two of the kids, Ciara and Tangi, just three weeks ago. I got share in the baptism of one of the kid’s moms just two weeks ago!

As I was driving home, so full of pride in our kids, I was thinking about how we, as the Body of Christ, work so much better together than we do alone. I am so grateful that I have had the opportunity to meet and get to know Cindy and Tami and their wonderful volunteers. Because of their efforts, the efforts of the Middle Learning Center volunteers, and all of us at BCC–kids lives are being changed. Keep praying for God to open new doors of opportunity for us to work together.

In His Steps,
Mike

Ball Room Dancers

Dear Friends,

I heard the news Monday morning that Tim Tebow had taken someone special with him to the The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards ceremony held Thursday night in Orlando, Florida. Didn’t think too much about it. As a matter of fact, I thought it might be another one of St. Tebow stories that gets blown way out of proportion by the media. I like Tim Tebow. In a day of pretenders, deceivers, and manipulators I think Tim Tebow is a wonderful witness for the cause of Christ. He’s a Christian who happens to be a great football player rather than a football player who just happens to be a Christian. That should be true of all of us who profess to be followers of Jesus whether we are athletes, bankers, bottle washers, stay-at-home-moms, doctors, or sanitation engineers.

I looked into the story about Tim’s special guest on Thursday night and was blown away by the story. It seems that there’s a young lady named Kelly Faughnan who was diagnosed with a brain tumor right before Thanksgiving last year. Her wish was to go to the ESPNU College Football Awards ceremony in Orlando in 2009 and meet Tim Tebow. Her parents committed to make the trip happen for her, but they told her that meeting Tebow probably wouldn’t happen. Well, they made the trip, went to a football reception, and low and behold she did get to meet Tim. Not only did she meet him, but when he heard her story Tim asked her if she would like to be his date to the awards ceremony on Thursday night.

I dare you to watch the video below and then tell me that you didn’t well up with a “that’s what it’s all about!” I know Tebow isn’t the most popular guy in the state of Oklahoma, but even the most die hard Sooner or Cowboy fan has to respect Tim’s act of kindness in making that one night special for Kelly Faughnan. Tim, may your tribe increase!!

There is a jewel of a bargain that has just hit the web. It’s a free gift from Seth Godin, author of 12 Bestsellers that have been translated into 33 languages. The eBook, What Maters Now, is a compilation of the thoughts of 70 different thinkers from various walks of life. It is well worth your time. The single mindset of the writers is, “big thoughts accompanied by small actions make a big difference.” As Seth Godin invited his friends to write an article the one stipulation was that they had to use 200 words or less. It is a quick, easy read which will spark some great thoughts for you. I hope you will bookmark this page or download the eBook to read at a later time.

What Matters Now

Sunday morning was so special for all of us at Britton Christian Church!! The kids led worship by performing their Christmas musical for the whole church. I want to thank all of the kids for their tireless efforts in learning the songs and memorizing lines for the play. I am still amazed at the number of lines that the kids who were in the play memorized. Unbelievable!! I also want to thank all of the parents who made sure their children were at all of the practices that have taken place during the past two months. I want to thank Ryan and Lacey Fisher, Pastor Neal and Ms. Atune in the play. Brad and Angelina ain’t got nuttin’ on you guys! If they were handing out Oscars for “Children’s Church Musicals” you would be a cinch!! Thanks a million to Dana Stevenson, our Children’s Minister, who does such an incredible job blessing our little ones. Last of all, (everyone stand on your feet and make a BIG “O” above your head with me. Do it right now. Now, everyone say, “Oooooooooooooooo!”) That’s a standing “O” taking place all over the world! Thanks Cheri Redburn for the hours and hours you spent teaching the little ones their songs and lines. I bet you have gone to bed with those songs ringing in your ears on more than one occasion! Now, may you get some much needed sleep.

There is no doubt in my mind that God has led the most gifted folks in the world to BCC. It is such a joy to watch you use your gifts to bless those the Lord has led into your life and our church.

In His Steps,
Mike

Sunday we will have only one service and it will be at 10:40 am. Our children will be leading worship for us and it is going to be a great blessing for everyone. Cheri Redburn, the kid’s amazing choir director, has been working with the children for months and you won’t want to miss it. Bring your friends and invite them to join us at 10:40 am at Britton Christian Church.

I wanted to write and let you know how grateful I am for all of you who took time out of your busy schedule to attend the very first, “Baa Baa Bethel Christmas Concert” last Sunday night. It was so much fun, so informative, and such a blessing for me and all of those who were involved. I’ve heard from quite a few folks this week who came not knowing what to expect and were so touched by the stories of the ministries of The Bethel Foundation and World Vision. I had a hard time holding back the emotion when one of the women being helped by Bethel told us that her daughter is attending Dartmouth and “she will be the one who breaks the cycle of poverty in our family.” That’s what it is all about!

I got a great surprise this week by way of email. I was notified by World Vision that a couple at BCC has made a donation to World Vision in the name of Connie and me for Christmas. What an amazing gift! Connie and I had already planned to give donations to World Vision in the names of some of those on our Christmas list, but I never dreamed that someone would do the same for us.

This Sunday we will keep the displays for The Bethel Foundation and World Vision in the narthex for those of you who missed the concert on Sunday night and would like to get involved in some way. You can give a one-time or ongoing gift to The Bethel Foundation or World Vision. What a way to celebrate the birth of our Savior, the greatest Gift of all.

In His Steps,
Mike

I’ve heard so much about The Truth Project. As I’ve led other Bible studies during the past few years folks would ask, “What study are we going to do next?” If I paused for even a moment I would hear, “We ought to do The Truth Project. It is so amazing!” I was given the DVD’s for the class a few months ago and began to watch them on my own. Wow! I was blown away by the quality and relevance of the study. The study is put out by Focus on the Family and they say,

The Truth Project is a DVD-based small group curriculum comprised of 12 one-hour lessons taught by Dr. Del Tackett. This home study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Each lesson discusses in great detail the relevance and importance of living the Christian worldview in daily life.

We will begin offering you the opportunity to sign-up for The Truth Project this Sunday, December 13. The study is really intended for a small, home group, but I will be leading the class on Wednesday evenings from 6-7 pm. If you would like to join us in January then make sure you sign-up soon. If you would like more information about The Truth Project then simply click it — The Truth Project and you will be taken right to their site.

In His Steps,
Mike

There are few things I enjoy as much as sharing with someone in baptism. I’m not just talking about physically “baptizing” someone, but the whole process. For every person that comes forward and gives their life to Christ there is a meeting that takes place before they ever enter into the waters of baptism. When I meet with the person who will be baptized we always spend some time taking a look at Romans 6:1-4. Let’s take a look at Romans 6:4 just for fun. Paul writes,

4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. (Romans�6:4�NIV)

How powerful is that! “Buried with Him through baptism into death…raised from the dead to live a new life.” Wow! What greater hope is there for any of us than these powerful words? I don’t know about you but I’ve “started over” so many times that I’ve lost count. I’ve attempted to pull myself up by my bootstraps too many times. I’ve made “resolutions” ad infinitum. My failures have made me weary. I thought I could set my mind to something and see it through. The Christian life is not like running an obstacle course where you simply figure things out and tough it out. We do not have what it takes to be the people God has called us to be.

The greatest news that I ever heard in my life was that God would give me a fresh start, a new beginning. My life is hidden in Christ. His “mercies are new every morning.” (Lamentations 2:22-23) His Spirit intercedes for me, reminds me, leads and guides me, and draws me back when I get off track. His Word is a “lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105) His Word is “sharper than any double-edged sword” to examine my true motives and the condition of my heart. (Hebrews 4:12) God has promised that He will “never leave me or forsake me.” (Hebrews 13:5) With promises and “tools” like these how can we be discouraged? He who began a good work in you and me is faithful to complete it. (Philippians 1:6)

I still put forth effort in my walk with God, but it is different now. I’m walking, serving, and living in the wide open spaces of the glorious grace of God’s goodness. It is not my power at work, but His power at work in me. Are you ready to wave the white flag of surrender and watch His wondrous work in your life?

In His Steps,
Mike

Last week we took a look at how we are to relate to our brothers and sisters in Christ. This week Paul turns our attention to those who persecute us�our enemies, our adversaries, the antagonists who oppose us. Paul, rather than encouraging us to lash out at, avoid, or simply refuse to retaliate against them, urges us to bless our enemies. Let�s read our Scripture and we will begin.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:14-21 NIV)

When Paul penned these words he was no doubt thinking about those who opposed the followers of Jesus because of their faith. The Roman Empire, under the leadership of Nero, would grow increasingly antagonistic over the next few years until, in 64 A.D. when Rome burned, Christians became his sole focus. Nero would take Christians, cover them in pitch, impale them on long poles, and light them on fire to illuminate his gardens. He brought Christians into the Coliseum, wrapped them in animal skins, and then turned hungry lions loose to devour them. Many believe that the man who wrote Romans, the Apostle Paul, was beheaded under Nero. Eusebius, known as the father of church history, says that Simon Peter was crucified under Nero.

With the tension rising between Church and State how would Paul counsel the followers of Jesus to react? How should the Body of Christ respond to such relentless attacks? Should they put bumper stickers on their chariots mocking Nero? Would it be beneficial to write articles for The Rome Inquirer about how Nero might be the anti-christ? Would Paul encourage them to plan a rally to denounce the government, the pagan morality of the citizens, and all of those who opposed the cause of Christ? Paul says, 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. (Romans 12:14 NIV) Where did Paul come up with advice like this? Why would Paul encourage those whose lives were threatened to bless those who wanted to kill them? How could the followers of Jesus bless rather than plan to retaliate against their persecutors? The answer to those questions is found not in reason or logic, but in Jesus.

Jesus was very familiar with persecution. Not only did Jesus experience incessant persecution from government and religious leaders in His day, but He spoke about those who were persecuted as well. Jesus said, in the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5:10-16.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:10-16 NIV)

Jesus says that we are blessed when we are persecuted. When people insult us, persecute us, and say things about us that aren�t true simply because we are His�we are blessed. It sure doesn�t feel like a blessing when we are in the cross-hairs of an antagonist does it? Yet, Jesus says we are blessed.

The word, �blessed� has different meanings in Scripture. The Greek word, �???????� (eulogeo) when used in the context of our blessing God means that we ascribe to Him the praise and honor that He is due. When it is used in the context of God blessing us it means that He bestows blessings, His favor, upon us. When �bless� is used in the context of Romans 12:14, as in our blessing our persecutors, it means that we ask God to bless them, we pray for them, we refuse to speak negatively about them, we work for their good, and we desire their well-being.

Jesus, while He was hanging on the cross, a cross that His enemies relished, asked the Father to forgive them, rather than destroy them. (Luke 23:34) In Matthew 5:44-48, Jesus said,

44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:44-48 NIV)

What He taught in the Sermon on the Mount, He lived on Mt. Calvary as He hung on the cross. Jesus didn�t merely teach, He lived out His lessons for us to follow in His steps.

What is the normal reaction of people when someone treats them badly, slanders their name, or intends to harm them? The normal reaction is to lash out, strike back, isn�t it? The normal reaction is to plot out how we will get back at them isn�t it? These are normal reactions, but we are not normal people my friends. Don�t you remember Matthew 5? Jesus said that we are the �salt of the earth,� we are the �light of the world.� Jesus said if we love only those who love us and welcome those who are our �brothers� and �sisters� then we are not doing anything different than the pagans do. We are more than that�we are the light of the world!

Are you convinced? That�s a tough agenda to tackle isn�t it? You better believe it is! Being a follower of Jesus isn�t for wimps! It is for radicals! Even if you are convinced that we are to love those who can�t stand us, those who think our faith is evidence that we are nuts, backwoods, hillbilly, unsophisticates then you have to wonder how you are supposed to pull it off. That�s the $1,000,000.00 question isn�t it? And the answer is�you can�t. Plain and simple. It is impossible for us to genuinely love and work for the betterment of those who persecute us, those who desire our ruin. But what is impossible with us is more than possible with God and His Spirit who works within us.

Paul gives us some good basic principles for what we should be praying about regarding our behavior towards those who oppose us. Paul gives us eight life principles that we can seek to live out and that we can pray for God to develop in our lives on a daily basis. These eight lessons comprise the blessing that we are to be to those who oppose us. I want to forewarn you. We are only going to get started today. We will take a look at the first of four lessons in our study for this morning. Let�s take a look at them.

First of all, we can rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.

When there is someone who has given you grief and then they fall on hard times you want to give it a Tiger Woods �fist pump� and scream out, �Yes!� don�t you? You want to shove a finger in their face and say, �You are just reaping what you�ve sown buddy!� When someone has given you grief and they hit it big, something good happens in their life, then you get steamed don�t you? You can�t believe it. It makes you mad.

Paul says that we are to mourn with our enemies when they go through difficult times. I can remember going to the County Jail one time to visit a young man who had sat in my office several months earlier. He had talked to his mother and me like we were ignorant. He was arrogant, condescending, and angry. His buddies were gang members here in the neighborhood and he was defending them to the death. When we tried to share God�s Word with him he wasn�t interested in the least. He thought it was all stupid and he didn’t mind telling us.

When he was arrested I went to see him. He was shocked that I would come. He was in solitary confinement for this crime, but they let him out for our visit. He couldn�t believe that I had come. I hugged him, prayed for him, and he knew that my heart was broken for him and his family. I left the jail with a different relationship with him than I had when he sat in my office several months earlier. I could have said, �I told you so.� I could have, but I didn�t because that was not what he needed. Jesus says that we are to mourn with those who mourn.

Secondly, we are to live in harmony with one another.

Literally, the sentence reads, �Be of the same mind towards one another.� Paul says that we should be easy to get along with. We should not try to stir things up. We shouldn�t be looking for things to oppose or criticize about those who oppose us. The Church in America, and especially those of us who call ourselves Evangelical Christians desperately need to hear this.

I have no problem understanding how unbelievers in our society see us as arrogant and self-righteous. It seems like Christians are always boycotting this-or-that, launching some new campaign to oppose this group or that group, or complaining about some ill that ails our society. Why, we even turn against our own if they don�t believe exactly like we believe. Paul says that we are to have the same mind towards one another. What is it that sets you and me apart from all of those that we like to hammer in our society? Our character, our integrity, our morality or ethics? I don�t think so. I think the distinction is our Savior and Him alone. Have we forgotten what we are apart from Jesus? We need to remember.

Thirdly, we are not to be proud, but we are to associate with those who hold no position in society, those who are forgotten and considered as unimportant.

We are not to be like those who �jockey� for position in society by trying to establish relationships with the rich, powerful, and popular who can benefit us. We are to be people who love all people, especially those who can do nothing for us. James warned us.

2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong? 8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. (James 2:2-9 NIV)

You may wonder what associating with the outcasts, poor, and marginalized has to do with blessing our adversaries? Many unbelievers in our society think the Church is only interested in money and drawing in the influential. It is difficult for unbelievers to lob their accusations against us when we are among those who are scorned by the rest of society. Let me give you an example. There is a people group in our society that almost unanimously tenses up when the words �Church, Bible, or Christians� is mentioned. I can�t say that I blame them. I�m talking about gays and lesbians.

For years these people have heard things coming out of the Church that has led them to believe that homosexuals are hated by God and us. Several years ago many preachers were proudly proclaiming that AIDS is God�s judgment on homosexuals. If you want to visit Westboro Baptist Church in Wichita, Kansas on the internet then you would have to go to www.godhatesfags.com. Is it any wonder why we have left the impression we have on these folks? Is there any wonder why they clinch their jaw when they hear the words �fundamentalist, evangelical, or Bible Church?�

Stop and think with me for a minute. The Bible says that homosexuality is sin. Right? The Bible also says that lying is sin, greed is sin, getting drunk is sin, adultery is sin, gossip is sin, and the list goes on and on and on. Yet, liars don�t become agitated when the Bible is mentioned. Most people who call themselves Christians are greedy. Adulterers are even members of churches. I�ve known some gossips to practice their craft in the church building. These �sinners� don�t have such a negative response about the Church. Why do gays and lesbians flare up with such animosity and hostility? Could it be because of the way we have responded to them?

Several years ago there was a gay man who attended this church. He had AIDS and I would go and visit him in his home when he got to where he couldn�t attend church any longer. We had lots of conversations about life, the Lord, our sin, and the wonders of God�s grace. He knew where I stood on the issue of homosexuality, but he also knew I loved him and wanted God�s best for him. Before he died he asked me if his funeral could be at Britton Christian Church? I said that we would be honored.

He was a huge Democrat, loved Bill and Hillary Clinton, and had pictures of himself with high profile Democratic politicians in his home. On the day of his funeral former Gov. David Walters was one of the speakers along with me and a successful businessman here in Oklahoma City. The three of us met before the service to go over the order together. When the service began the sanctuary was full of Troy�s friends. I shared about Troy�s life, I shared the Word of God, and we all shared in the loss of our friend together.

Following the service, after everyone had filed out of the sanctuary and headed to the Waterford where Troy had planned a reception for his friends, the businessman came up to me. He said, �I want to apologize to you.� He said, �When I heard Troy�s funeral was going to be held at a church I assumed I knew the kind of church it would be and I assumed what kind of pastor you would be. I was wrong and I want to apologize.� I pray that there were other minds and hearts changed that day.

Fourth, we are to never repay evil with evil.

Never? Never! Now, don�t let that lead you to believe that those who do evil will not be held accountable for their actions. They are accountable for their actions and we will see God�s plan for those who harm others, but we are not to repay evil for evil. This insistence from the Apostle Paul is found in Jesus and also in the Hebrew Bible. In Proverbs 20:22 we read,

22 Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you. (Proverbs 20:22 NIV)

Isn�t that interesting? Proverbs was written over 2600 years ago and yet those words, �I�ll pay you back for this wrong!� could have rolled off of any of our tongues during the past week. What�s God�s counsel to us? Don�t do it! �Wait for the Lord, and He will deliver you.� In Proverbs 24:28-29 we read,

28 Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive. 29 Do not say, “I’ll do to him as he has done to me; I’ll pay that man back for what he did.” (Proverbs 24:28-29 NIV)

Don�t talk about �pay back,� pray about how you might bless those who persecute you. Jesus said,

27 “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. (Luke 6:27-28 NIV)

It is almost like we are hard-wired to get back at those who persecute us or try to harm us in any way. We don�t have to be taught how to do this. Just go in the nursery and watch a small child take another child�s toy. What will he or she do? They�ll go at it like two Ultimate Fighters! Striking back is normal, but remember�we are not normal. Let me close our study today by telling you a story that happened right here in Oklahoma.

Johnny Lee Clary thought that racism and bigotry were to be worn as a badge of honor. His dad committed suicide, his mother abandoned him, and he felt all alone in the world until he found a place to belong. The problem was that the group that opened their arms to the alienated 14 year old was the Ku Klux Klan. He soaked up the teachings of David Duke and participated in KKK events. His passion caused him to rise through the ranks of the Klan and eventually become the Imperial Wizard of the White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, the most feared element of the Klan in history. Johnny appeared on television talk shows along with Tom Metzger, the founder of the White Aryan Resistance, spewing his hatred towards other races.

Wade Watts was born September 23rd, 1919, in Kiamichi, Oklahoma. His family moved to Canada for a short time before they moved back to Eufaula, OK. During Wade�s younger years he witnessed racism firsthand and it shaped who he would become as a man. Wade became a close friend of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. He joined the N.A.A.C.P when he was 17 years old, became a pastor in his early 30�s, and marched with Dr. King in Selma, Alabama in 1965.

Wade and his wife, Betty Jean, lost their firstborn in a hospital in Ada, OK. It was the dead of winter and the nursery in the hospital was segregated. The heat was piped into the �white nursery.� Wade and Betty Jean�s baby was in the �black nursery.� As a result the baby froze to death.

Wade Watts and Johnny Lee Clary�s paths would intersect in 1979. Wade was the leader of the Oklahoma chapter of the NAACP. Johnny Lee Clary was the Grand Dragon of the Oklahoma KKK. The two met in a debate that was broadcast across the country through an Oklahoma City radio station. When the two men came out to debate Wade reached out his hand to shake Johnny�s, but Johnny knew that according to the Klan �rule book� to touch a non-white person was to pollute one�s self. Wade shook his hand any way and said, �Hi Johnny. Jesus loves you and I love you.� Johnny Lee Clary called Wade every name in the book, but Wade said, �Johnny, there is nothing that you can do to stop me from loving you.�

After the debate Johnny decided to do everything in his power to get Wade. He would call him on the phone and threaten him, he and other Klansmen showed up at Wade�s house in their hoods and robes, they burned a cross in his yard, and even burned the church that Wade pastored. Each time Johnny attempted to get at Wade he got the same response. Wade would remind Johnny that Jesus loved him and he did as well.

Johnny called Wade after he and his buddies burned Wade�s church. Johnny sought to disguise his voice and said, �Hey boy. You don�t know me but we know you and we�re coming for you.� Wade said, �Hi Johnny. I�m going to pray for you.� And then he prayed, �Lord Jesus forgive Johnny for being so stupid.�

One time Johnny and about 30 of his buddies surrounded Wade at a restaurant in McAlester. Wade was getting ready to eat some chicken when Johnny said, �You better think about what you are doing boy because whatever you do next to that chicken we are going to do to you.� Wade picked up the chicken and kissed it. Everyone in the restaurant broke out in laughter except for Johnny.

Johnny�s life began to spin out of control. There was infighting in the Klan, he had suffered from two divorces, found out his girlfriend was an informant for the FBI, and eventually Johnny left the Klan. Johnny began to experience extreme guilt over the violence and hatred that he had lived for so long. He was on the verge of taking his own life one night when he cried out to God. God heard his cry.

Over the next few years Johnny contacted Wade and the two of them became friends. Johnny became a minister and he and Wade preached together in Tulsa at ORU�s Mabee Center. They appeared together on the Phil Donahue Show and The Geraldo Rivera Show. Wade was interviewed on television one time and he said,

I always wanted to leave this old world, knowing that I left it a better place than I found it; but to have been a help in converting Johnny Lee Clary over to Christianity, the right kind of Christianity, not the Ku Klux Klan type, but the RIGHT kind of Christianity, well, that’s one of the best jobs I ever done in my life.

Wade went home to be with the Lord on December 13, 1998. At his passing Johnny Lee Clary said,

Rev. Watts was like a father to me. I am grateful for all the years I had with him, and for all the wisdom and knowledge he passed on to me. He told me that he was passing me his mantle. I do not feel worthy to take it up; however, if he thought that much of me to invest all those years of time and wisdom into me, then I owe it to the memory of him to fight racism and continue his works. Wade and I always called one another “Old Partner”. I will miss him for the rest of my life, and will never forget him. Because I serve Jesus as my Lord and Master, I will see Wade again. So it’s not goodbye, but it’s just “So Long For Now, Old Partner!” (Rev. Johnny Lee Clary)

Did you hear that? �The Rev. Johnny Lee Clary.� How do you explain that? What can soften a racist�s heart? What can turn a “cross burner” into a “cross proclaimer?” It wasn�t Pastor Wade Watt�s brute strength or sensitivity training that changed the heart of Johnny Lee Clary. It was the love of Jesus. The relentless love of Jesus. Just as Jesus changed Johnny�s heart towards those he saw as his enemies so He can change your heart this very morning if you will only let Him in. Won�t you let Him in?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
December 6, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

I was taking a look at my schedule for next week this morning when I felt it happen. I know you know the feeling. Overwhelmed, but nothing you can do about it. I’ve got a commitment every single night of the week next week. Not to mention that three of my mornings at this point will start will begin before 6 am. Long days. Long week. And who will get the short end of the stick? Not those that I meet with. I’ll pull it together and do my best. It will be Connie and Annie that will get the leftovers. Not because I don’t care or am uninterested, but simply because there will not be anything left in the tank. I’m no prophet and don’t have a crystal ball, but I’ve had weeks like the one coming before.

Connie and Annie will not get the leftovers next week because I got an email from a friend this morning and it caused me to go back over my schedule. I’m going to reorganize some things. I’m going to plan some “meetings” of my own. Not with church members or heads of Foundations or…but with my wife and daughter. The email came in the form of a video in my “inbox” and I am so grateful. The video came from my friend, Joe White, and boy did it hit home. If you would like to watch it then just “click” Joe’s name and it will take you there immediately.

This time of year is so busy. I’m not telling you anything. You are as busy as I am and it’s not going to get any better until after Christmas. Unless. Unless we say, “Enough!” Unless we make some plans of our own. Unless we say, “Thanks, but no thanks” to some great opportunities, but not the best choices for us at this time. I hope you will watch the video and then find a quiet place where you can review your schedule and plan some meetings of your own with those you love.

In His Steps,
Mike

This coming Sunday you can hear all of the wonderful Christmas songs that you have come to love through the years, but this Sunday we are singing for a cause. Our choir is highlighting the wonderful ministries of The Bethel Foundation and World Vision on Sunday night beginning at 6 pm.

The Bethel Foundation works with over 400 single mothers in the Oklahoma City area. Lynda Powell, the Founder of The Bethel Foundation was the Children’s Minister at Britton Christian Church for many years before launching The Bethel Foundation. God is using Lynda and her committed volunteers in a powerful way.

The ministry of World Vision is global and has been one of the most effective Christian ministries working with the poor since 1950. The mission statement reads,

“to follow our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek justice and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of God.”

We are linking with World Vision to provide livestock, specifically goats and chickens for struggling families in Latin America and Africa. For $75 we can provide a goat which will provide milk for a family and help to establish a herd whose offspring can be sold for the financial support of the family. For $25 we can provide 2 chickens for a family which will produce eggs as well as offspring for the family. This is real help for those needing the basics of life.

We will take up a “love offering” at the end of the concert for those interested in helping. Even if you don’t feel led to get involved we would love to have you to come to the concert. Following the concert we will all move to the gym where we will indulge in some of the finest food you’ve ever tasted. It is going to be a great night. Invite a friend and join us.

In His Steps,
Mike Hays

We have been praying for months for the arrival of the precious gift God has been preparing for Jason and Emily Dowling and their family. Just last week little Sadie arrived and we are rejoicing at God’s gift! As we mentioned to you last Sunday, during our prayer time, Sadie was born with some challenges. She has a cyst on her lungs and she was born with a cleft palate and cleft lip. The doctors have already scheduled Sadie’s first surgery and we are very encouraged with the news that Emily has been passing along to us through her blog. You can check out the Dowling Family Blog and see more pictures of Sadie, as well as keep up with her progress by simply clicking on the hotlink. Thanks for your many prayers. If you head on over to the Dowling’s blog then you will read about how God has been answering prayers in a powerful way. Your prayers are invaluable!

Love is in the air, it�s on the television, it�s written about in books and magazines, and it�s talked about in school cafeterias, office cubicles, and Facebook. Yet, with all of this talk, have you really ever stopped to think about the quality of the love that is so prevalent in our society today? It�s pretty weak isn�t it? For the most part it doesn�t last and it doesn�t last because we have come to know love as a feeling that we �get� rather than a decision that is made.

Today we are going to continue our study of Romans 12. In Romans 12:10-13 Paul gives us some great guidance about how we, as a family of faith, united by the love that God has demonstrated for each of us, should love one another. Let�s read our Scripture and then we will get started. Go ahead and back up to verse 9 to begin.

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:9-13 NIV)

There are thirteen character qualities, thirteen aspects of the love that we are to demonstrate for one another listed in these verses. We�ve already studied verse 9 so we won�t be redundant with the first three aspects of love covered in that verse. I want you to notice something as we begin our study this morning. Paul doesn�t say that we are to love, with an �agape� love, those that we like or are drawn to who are brothers and sisters in Christ. He says that we are to love the family, the whole family. It is so important that we not only understand this, but put it into practice. I want to emphasize this because I see something totally different happening in the Body of Christ today. Our love is not so much different than the love that is practiced by those who don�t claim to follow Jesus. We need to be challenged to love others like God has loved us.

Do you think that you are �attractive� to God? Is it your personality that has drawn God to you? Is it your wit, your wisdom, or your good looks that caused God to stand up and take notice of you? Hardly. God loves you and me because He has chosen to love us. He knows that we are needy folks, schizophrenic folks, hard-headed folks, prejudiced folks, arrogant folks, contrary, moody, and difficult folks. Yet, He loves us. He loves us. Isn�t that amazing? It is more than amazing, it describes in vivid detail the kind of love God has and wants us to have for others. We are to love those who are just like us�messed up folks.

In the early Church they had their problems, but boy did they know how to love. I was reading this past week about the early Church and I�ve run across some writings that demonstrate their love for one another that I want to share with you.

Aristides was a Christian philosopher who died in 133 A.D. He observed and wrote about the followers of Jesus. Listen to what he saw among those who called themselves Christians.

They walk in all humility and kindness, and falsehood is not found among them, and they love one another. They despise not the widow, and grieve not the orphan. He that has distributes liberally to him that has not. If they see a stranger, they bring him under their roof, and rejoice over him as if he were their own brother: for they call themselves brothers, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit of God. When one of their poor passes away from the world, and any of them see him, they provide for his burial according to their ability; and if they hear that any of their number is imprisoned or oppressed for the name of their Messiah, all of them provide for his needs� And if there is among them a man that is needy and poor, and they have not an abundance of necessities, they fast two or three days that they may supply the needy with their necessary food. (Aristides, 125 A.D.)

Are you starting to get the picture? This description of love is not quite the picture that we get in our day is it. Let me continue.

Tertullian was born in 160 A.D. and died in 220 A.D. He was a very interesting man. He was born in Carthage to parents who weren�t Christians. His dad was a Roman centurion in Africa. He wanted his son to do something with his life so he prepared him for civil service. He got the best education in jurisprudence and the art of forensic eloquence that a person could get in that day. Tertullian was brilliant and quickly moved to the head of the class�until his conversion to Christianity. Tertullian knew that it was God who had given him his intellectual aptitude so he used his mind for the glory of God.

Tertullian wrote, Apology, as a defense of the Christian faith to the Romans officials who were persecuting the followers of Jesus. To those governing officials he wrote,

But carry on, good officials. You will become much better in the eyes of the people if you will sacrifice the Christians for them. Torture us! Your iniquity is the proof of our innocence. For this reason God permits us to suffer these things… Yet your tortures accomplish nothing, though each is more refined than the last; rather they are an enticement to our religion. We become more every time we are hewn down by you: the blood of Christians is seed. (Apology, 50, 12ff).

Later, in Apology, Tertullian wrote that it was unjust for the Christians to be persecuted because their chief aim was to serve God by caring for those of the community who were struggling. Tertullian writes about the generosity of Christians.

Though we have our treasure-chest, it is not made up of purchase-money, as of a religion that has its price. On the monthly day, if he likes, each puts in a small donation; but only if it be his pleasure, and only if he is able: for there is no compulsion; all is voluntary. These gifts are, as it were, piety�s deposit fund. For they are not taken and spent on feasts, and drinking-bouts, and eating-houses, but to support and bury poor people, to supply the wants of boys and girls destitute of means and parents, and of old persons confined now to the house; such, too, as have suffered shipwreck; and if there happen to be any in the mines, or banished to the islands, or shut up in the prisons, for nothing but their fidelity to the cause of God�s Church, they become the nurslings of their confession. But it is mainly the deeds of a love so noble that lead many to put a brand upon us. See, they say, how they love one another� (Tertullian, Apology 39.6, written about 197 A.D.)

I love the line, �But it is mainly the deeds of love so noble that lead many to put a brand upon us. �See,� they say, �how they love one another���

Flavius Claudius Julianus was born in 331 in Constantinople. He was the ruler of the Roman Empire serving as Caesar from 355-360 and then as Augustus from 361-363. Julian was later known as �Julian the Apostate.� His chief aim as Emperor was to restore pagan worship to the empire and eradicate the Roman Empire of Christianity. Julian wanted to borrow from Christianity the love and morality he saw practiced by the followers of Jesus, but he wanted the pagans to exemplify these qualities. In one of his writings Julian said that Christianity,

�has been specially advanced through the loving service rendered to strangers and through their care of the burial of the dead. It is a scandal that there is not a single Jew who is a beggar and that the [Christians] care not only for their own poor but for ours as well; while those who belong to us look in vain for the help we should render them. (Emperor Julian)

It�s one thing to read the words of Tertullian or Aristides, but to read the words of the archenemy of Christianity, the leader of the Roman Empire, praising the love and devotion of the followers of Jesus, now that is something else. Let me read to you once again our Scripture from Romans 12:9-13 and see if the actions of the early Church reflect Paul�s description of love.

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:9-13 NIV)

I mentioned to you that there are ten aspects of the love that Paul urges us to display in our relationships with one another. Let�s take a look by beginning with verse 10.

First of all, we are to �be devoted to one another in brotherly love.�

There are four Greek words used to describe various kinds of love. �Agape,� which we have already looked at, describes love with no strings attached. �Philia� and �storge� are used in verses 10. �Eros� is the word that we get our word, �erotic,� from and it is not used in the Bible. In verse 10, the word, �devoted� is the Greek word, �???????????� (philostorgos) and it means, �the mutual love of parents and children and wives and husbands,� or �used chiefly of the reciprocal tenderness of parents and children.� The last phrase of verse 10, �in brotherly love,� translates the Greek word, �??????????� (Philadelphia). Like the city of Philadelphia, the city of �brotherly love.� These are words used to describe a family kind of love. This is the kind of love we are to have for one another. This is a devoted love, a love like we have for family members. In my family we can have our squabbles and disagreements, but you don�t want to mess with one of my family members. And so it should be with our family of faith.

Secondly, we are to honor one another above ourselves.

One Bible commentator says that the word used for �honor� means, �to go before, or to lead, to set an example.� That is exactly what we are to do. Most people are looking for a pat on the back, but as brothers and sisters in Christ we are to be the ones patting folks on the back. Have you ever set out in your day and said, �Today, I�m going to look for things that others do to brag on them, to appreciate them, to honor them.� That is the mindset of the followers of Jesus. Paul wrote in Philippians 2:3-7,

3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Philippians 2:3-7 NIV)

Why should we do nothing out of �selfish ambition� or �vain conceit?� Why should we consider others before we consider ourselves? Why should we look out for others instead of #1? These are the distinguishing marks of our Savior. He made Himself nothing and took on the very nature of a servant.

Thirdly, we are never to be lacking in zeal.

James Montgomery Boice says that a literal translation would read, �In regard to what you ought to be doing, don�t be lazy.� Paul wrote to the folks in Galatia and said,

9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 6:9-10 NIV)

Don�t give up. Don�t stop doing good for others. Paul also wrote to the folks in Thessalonica. Here is what he had to say, 13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. (2 Thessalonians 3:13 NIV)

In Romans 12:10 Paul said �don�t lose your zeal.� In Galatians and Thessalonians he said, �Don�t become weary in doing good.� We tend to make commitments with passion, but then lose our passion and conviction don�t we? Paul urges us not to lose our passion for loving others.

Paul also alluded to becoming �weary.� Is the �weariness� that Paul is talking about physical exhaustion? Could be, but I would not isolate it to physical fatigue. There are other things that can contribute to our weariness aren�t there? People can wear you out can�t they? You make a concerted effort to let petty things go, seek to be a blessing, and go the extra mile to love folks only to have them take advantage of you. Now, that will wear you out and make you want to just go home and take care of your own business. Paul says, �Don�t do it. Never tire of loving others.�

The fourth aspect of love we are to show our brothers and sisters in Christ is this: Keep your spiritual fervor.

This is the positive command of the previous exhortation to not be lazy. The word, �fervor,� literally means, �to boil,� or �to be hot.� We are to keep the fire of passion burning throughout our life so that we can live out the life that we have been called to live. Now, you need to know that this is impossible on our own. Paul told Timothy to �fan into flame the gift of God.� Evidently it had died down. Donald Grey Barnhouse says that there is a key to keeping our spiritual passion for God and for loving His people throughout our lives. Barnhouse writes,

The glow of the Spirit is the warmth of the soul touched by the love of Christ. It cannot exist apart from the knowledge that we have been loved, that Christ gave himself for our sins, that we have been redeemed, and that the Holy Spirit has come to dwell in our hearts. Such knowledge causes us to yield in full surrender to him as Lord of all. The Holy Spirit, who dwells in all believers, will glow through those who allow him to fill and direct their lives. (Donald Grey Barnhouse, God�s Discipline: Exposition of Bible Doctrines, Taking the Epistle to the Romans as a Point of Departure, Vol. 9, Romans 12:1-14:12. Grand Rapids: Wm B. Erdman�s Publishing Company 1964, p. 74)

The fifth aspect of love is: Serve the Lord.

When we are loving others we are serving the Lord. We are not to become lazy, we are to keep the fire burning, and remember that we are not merely loving others, but we are serving the Lord. It is imperative that we keep this in mind or we will become �weary in doing good� and abandon ship. Paul wrote to the folks in Colosse.

23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV)

One of my favorite verses in all of God�s Word is Hebrews 6:10. It has helped me to realize �Who� I am loving when I begin to lose my passion for loving others. Listen to this.

10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. (Hebrews 6:10 NIV)

Sixth, we are to be joyful in hope.

Actually the next three should be taken together rather than standing alone. We are to be �joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.� Being �joyful� can be a chore can�t it? You can manufacture it for a little while, but sooner or later life�s ups and downs are going to peel away the thin veneer of pretend joy and expose what really lies underneath. Paul isn�t talking about a manufactured joy, he says to be �joyful in hope.� Our hope is grounded in something other than our having a great day or things going our way. In Titus 2:11-15 we read,

11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope–the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. 15 These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you. (Titus 2:11-15 NIV)

We are waiting for our �blessed hope.� Our hope is that one day Jesus will make good on His promise to come back for His own at which time we will be delivered from this life with its heartaches and troubles. It�s not an empty hope my friends. Every promise that He has ever made He has delivered on so we have no worries, no questions, about whether or not He will come back for us�it is only a matter of time. So we wait, we press on through the hardships of life full of hope, knowing that the finish line is approaching.

Seventh, we are to be patient in affliction.

What does it mean to be �patient in affliction?� That�s a great question and boy do we need an answer because every one of us will face affliction in our lives. The word for �affliction� is �??????� (thlipsis) and it means, �a pressing, pressing together, pressure, or straits.� That�s what troubling times do to us isn�t it? They press us. They squeeze the life, the energy, out of us. Paul says that we are to take on a posture during troubling times. The Greek word, �???????� (hupomeno) means, �to remain, to not recede or flee, to stand one�s ground.� We get into big trouble when we act rashly during difficult times. We are wait on God, stand still and wait on God. In Psalm 40 we read,

1 For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. (Psalm 40:1-2 NIV)

During difficult times we have a tendency to question God, to make hasty decisions, and do try anything to get out of the predicament we are in. Don�t give in to these tendencies�trust God, hold fast to God, cling to Him with all your might as you endure the trial.

The eighth aspect of our love is “be faithful in prayer.”

We are not just to pray for ourselves, we are to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica and said,

16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)

I can see how God works through prayer. Each week I join a group of folks for the Sweet Hour of Prayer and I witness firsthand how God lays on our hearts those who are struggling, those who have important decisions to make in life, and those who are being pressed by life. It is amazing to see how God, who knows what each of us is dealing with in life, will place you on the hearts of those you don�t even know are speaking your name before His glorious throne.

Ninth, we are to share with God�s people who are in need.

Wasn�t it humbling to hear the writings of those who lived so long ago? To hear how the early Church cared for those who were in prison, those who were hungry, those families who lost a loved one but couldn�t afford a funeral, and children who didn�t have parents? We are to care for those who are in need. Paul told a young preacher named Timothy.

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. (1 Timothy 6:17-18 NIV)

Generosity is not just the responsibility of the rich�it is the privilege of us all. I was so blessed to learn that we were able to donate over 500 turkeys to the Britvil Food Pantry to be given to families in our community for Thanksgiving. I was even more blessed when I learned that some of those who gave are people in this church who have visited Britvil during times when food was scarce in your house.

Last of all, we are to practice hospitality.

We are to look for opportunities to be hospitable. Caring for our brothers and sisters in Christ is more than simply giving money; it is offering our lives in their service to help meet whatever need they might have. There are some needs that money can�t fix. Jesus summed it up in His parable of the Sheep and the Goats. Do you know the parable? Jesus said that the judgment of God will be like a Shepherd who separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep are on His right hand and the goats on His left. Jesus said,

34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:34-40 NIV)

Whatever we do for others we are doing for Jesus? Are you serious? You can�t be serious? That is exactly what Jesus says my friends. How did the early Church have such an amazing impact on the world when they didn�t have the material resources that we have, the benefit of a seminary education, or conferences on �church growth� to aid them? It�s quite simple: they loved one another. Jesus said,

34 �A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35 NIV)

You want to know how to make an impact on the world around you? They aren�t looking for your deep theology. They aren�t impressed by your ability to quote chapter and verse of God�s Word. They aren�t wowed by our elaborate buildings. They aren�t attracted to our special events. They are starved for love, for someone who will love them like God loves them. I will tell you that you can�t love anyone like that until you�ve come to know and experience the love of God for yourself. Once you come to know that love, really know His love, then you don�t want to keep it to yourself.

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
November 29, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

Well, the “holy days,” I mean holidays are upon us. I had to correct myself as there may be someone monitoring our blog that might think I was proselytizing for the cause of Christ if I even hinted that days like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are holy days.

I heard this week that The American Humanist Association has just launched a new ad campaign for the holidays called, “Goodness’ Sake.” The catchy phrase used in the campaign is, “No God? No Problem! Be good for goodness’ sake.” The ads have already appeared in the New York Times and Washington Post. The ads are being placed on over 200 Washington DC Metro buses this week before they spread out to Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Chicago on December 1.

The Executive Director of the American Humanist Association, Roy Speckhardt, says, “Humanists have always understood that you don’t need a god to be good.” “You don’t need a god to be good.” I agree. You don’t need a god, but without God you have about as much of a chance of being “good” as an Eskimo making millions selling snow. Santa has a better shot at fitting in a Speedo than we have of fitting a description of “good.” The Psalmist wrote,

3 Everyone has turned away, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one. (Psa�53:3�NIV)

It is because we are incapable of being good that God sent His Son to live, die in our place, and overcome death and the grave so that we who are “in Christ” might experience something much more powerful than “self-willed goodness”–we can know God. Not only can we know God, but we can experience His grace and mercy at work in our lives on a daily basis. For those who are “in Christ” God is working to mold us and shape us into the people He desires for us to be. Paul wrote,

6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Phi�1:6�NIV)

As I read the press release from the American Humanist Association I thought about the negative remarks I’ve heard about the followers of Jesus because we are always “forcing” our beliefs on others. Those who are atheists are some of the most vocal in their opposition of our “sharing our faith.” Yet, Fred Edwords, the Director of Communications for the organization said, commenting on billboards that first began showing up in 2008 and which read, “Don’t Believe in God? You are not alone.”

“Those billboards,” Fred Edwords added, “started raising the profile of our movement and generated an avalanche of responses, both from people who realized that they, too, were humanists as well as from those who disagreed with us. But everyone heard our message loud and clear. And this is what it takes for us to reach our audience.”

Those of the American Humanist Association are just trying to get their message out. It’s a message they believe in, sincerely believe in, but they are sincerely wrong. In a way, the “Goodness’ Sakes” campaign convicts me to my core. While the humanists are tirelessly working to get their message out, unashamedly get their message out, where are we? Where is the Body of Christ? While Jehovah Witnesses are knocking on doors, humanists are campaigning for the cause of…nothing, Mormons are rapidly expanding their cause, and countless other religious and non-religious “causes” are busy at work, the Body of Christ is drenched in lethargy and apathy. It’s time that we realize that there is a world of people who have “ears to hear.” The only question is “What are they hearing?” This holiday season let those you know hear the message that has rung out throughout the ages…”Joy to the world the Lord has come!”

Hi Everyone,

One of the greatest joys of being a pastor is getting to share in people’s decisions to ask Jesus into their heart as Lord and Savior and then walking with them into the waters of baptism. When someone comes forward at the end of one of our services I meet with them before they are actually baptized so that they can understand what they are doing and what “baptism” is all about. There are far too many folks who have been baptized and see it as nothing more than getting “dunked.” Paul said, in Romans 6, that “we were buried with Christ through baptism, into death…and raised to newness of life.” What a powerful picture for those about to enter the “watery grave.”

I wanted to share with you some of the pictures of those recently baptized at BCC. I hope that these pictures will cause you to remember the day that you stood in the watery grave and announced to the world that from that day forward God’s will be preeminent in your life.

In His Steps,
Mike

The gift of memory can also be used as a divisive and destructive tool in the hands of those who choose to use it to hold things against others or as an instrument to forecast a future of doom based upon a negative experience in the past. We can choose to remember a time when we were hurt by someone who professed to love God and therefore come to the conclusion that we don’t want anything to do with God anymore. We can choose to remember a time when we took a risk and it failed and therefore choose to never risk again. We can choose to remember a time when we were taken advantage of by someone we forgave and therefore conclude that we will never forgive again. We can remember a time when we trusted someone only to be let down and therefore conclude that we will never trust again. We, as a church, could have chosen many years ago to remember a time when there were less and less of us here on Sunday and concluded that we will keep declining for the rest of our days. God doesn�t intend for us to use our memory in these ways. He wants us to be forgiving, He wants us to be trusting, He wants us to be people who are willing to take a risk for the Kingdom, and He wants us to be people who are filled with hope of a brighter day rather than filled with despair.

There are many uses of the precious gift God has given us called memory, but the greatest use of the gift is for us to remember who God is and what He has done in times past, throughout history, and in our own personal history. When we choose to use God’s gift in this way, to remember who God is and what He has done, then it keeps us focused on God and not on our circumstances or situations. He�s able. Hasn�t He proven this in times past? He is able, but for us to know that, to be comforted by that fact, we must remember.

This is not some new idea that I’ve invented, it has been the practice of God’s people for thousands of years. There are 166 places in the Bible where we find the word, “remember.” We are to remember the faithfulness of Almighty God, the acts of Almighty God, the mercy of Almighty God, and the love and forgiveness of Almighty God each and every day of our lives.

We are to remember God and His faithfulness each and every day, but in our country we have a day called, �Thanksgiving� set aside to remind us to �give thanks.� In order to give thanks we must recall the many things that we are thankful for, right? Throughout the history of the observance of Thanksgiving there have been innumerable trials, hardships, and tragedies faced by individuals and the nation, and yet we have so much to be thankful for don�t we?

Long before the establishment of our nation and the observance of Thanksgiving, we read in God�s Word that God called His people to remember His faithfulness. Not just to remember, but to pass on the information to their children and their children’s children in order that they would not forget Almighty God. I want to share with you an example of what I am talking about before we take a few minutes to remember what God has been doing among us. Take out your Bible and turn to Psalm 78 as we begin our study this morning.

1 O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old– 3 what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. 4 We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done. 5 He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, 6 so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. 7 Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. 8 They would not be like their forefathers– a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him. 9 The men of Ephraim, though armed with bows, turned back on the day of battle; 10they did not keep God’s covenant and refused to live by his law. 11They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them. 12He did miracles in the sight of their fathers in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan. 13 He divided the sea and led them through; he made the water stand firm like a wall. 14 He guided them with the cloud by day and with light from the fire all night. 15 He split the rocks in the desert and gave them water as abundant as the seas; 16 he brought streams out of a rocky crag and made water flow down like rivers. 17But they continued to sin against him, rebelling in the desert against the Most High. 18 They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved. 19 They spoke against God, saying, “Can God spread a table in the desert? 20 When he struck the rock, water gushed out, and streams flowed abundantly. But can he also give us food? Can he supply meat for his people?” (Psalms 78:1-20 NIV)

Verse 11 jumps from the page and challenges me at every turn. The verse reads, “They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them.” I don’t want us to forget. We look around our society today and it isn’t difficult for any of us to come to the conclusion that we as Americans have, to a large degree, forgotten God. In times of national crisis God is permitted back into our land, back into our conversations, and back on prime time television, but then, as time passes, we dismiss Him all over again.

I don’t want us to forget. I want our children to know about God�s faithfulness and His mighty power, but they will never know if we forget to tell them. If we forget God’s mighty deeds then we are doomed, if we forget then we will most certainly become a people with no hope!

This morning I want to refresh our memories. I want us to take a look at some of the benefits of remembering based upon what God has to teach us from His Word. Before we take a look at the benefits of remembering the things God wants us to remember, let�s take a look at one of the biggest pitfalls of failing to remember. Turn with me to Judges 8:33-34.

The book of Judges is a tragic account of a people who forgot God over and over again. When they forgot God they would suffer the consequences of their decisions until they were absolutely miserable. At that point they would cry out to God, He would send a deliverer to rescue and restore them, and then they would slowly but surely forget God all over again. In the Scripture that we are getting ready to read, you need to know that Gideon was the man that God raised up to deliver the people from the oppression of the Midianites. After God had used Gideon, and the 300 men who joined him to win a great victory, the downward cycle began until Gideon died. Let�s read our Scripture together.

33 No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. They set up Baal-Berith as their god 34 and did not remember the LORD their God, who had rescued them from the hands of all their enemies on every side. (Judges 8:33-34 NIV)

What happens when we forget God? We do whatever we want to do. We do whatever we think is best for us. What we think is best might very well lead to our own destruction. How many times have you and I set our sights on what we wanted only to be disappointed when we finally got our way?

You need to know that Gideon was no bastion of virtue or courage when God sought him out. He had his own opinions about what was happening in the land. He has his own ideas about what he thought about God and they were all wrong. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon he was threshing wheat in a winepress, hiding from the Midianites. Gideon must have been thinking while he was threshing that wheat because when the angel of the Lord appeared to him the conversation went like this:

12 When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” 13 “But sir,” Gideon replied, “if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, ‘Did not the LORD bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the LORD has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian.” (Judges 6:12-13 NIV)

Gideon felt abandoned, but he didn�t know that his Deliverer had just shown up. When we forget God nothing good can happen, but when nothing good is happening we can remember God and know that He is able! Don�t forget. I urge you to never forget.

On the other side of the coin, when we choose to remember, to always remember the Lord and His faithfulness, His mighty power, His mercies that are new every morning, and His Sovereignty which reassures us that He has a plan for our lives, then we are changed by those thoughts. There are so many benefits derived from remembering God, who He is and what He has done, but I want to narrow the list to just five for this morning.

First of all, remembering enables us to be aware of the wondrous privilege of being a child of God. In Ephesians 2:11-13, Paul wrote,

11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (that done in the body by the hands of men)– 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.(Ephesians 2:11-13 NIV)

Remembering helps me to never forget the greatest single act that God has ever done in my life�He has made me His own. I belong. I have purpose. I am forgiven. I have hope. I have a future. Who has done this? You may have your own answer to that question, but I know it is absolutely nothing that I have done. He has done it all! Each and every day I am to remember that at one time God was a stranger to me, but then He made me His own, He made Himself known. I belong to Him.

Secondly, remembering who God is and what He has done gives us hope. Is it easy to lose hope? In our own personal lives? On a broader scale, a national or global scale? No question about it. Troubles visit every home. Heartache is known by every heart. Some succumb to the blows and throw in the towel.

On a broader scale, as we survey the landscape called, �humanity,� all you have to do is watch the evening news and it is almost impossible to finish the broadcast feeling hopeful or inspired. If it is not gunmen mowing down soldiers at a military base in our own country, it is threats of car bombings in Afghanistan, genocide in Darfur, a new, unfolding famine in Ethiopia, H1N1 in our own country, or a wave of people losing their jobs and wondering if we will be handed a �pink slip.� Hope is fragile, and yet, for those who will choose to remember hope is not elusive, hope is rooted in God, and our continually abiding and trusting in Him.

Those who had been slaves in Egypt could no way be characterized as people of hope. They had had their hopes dashed over and over again. When God delivered them from the Egyptians and they began to make their way towards the Promised Land they began to grumble about the trials they were experiencing. As they made their way closer to the Promised Land they began to worry about the nations that were already in the land, nations much stronger than themselves. In Deuteronomy 7, Moses encouraged them to remember. Read along with me beginning in verse 17.

17 You may say to yourselves, “These nations are stronger than we are. How can we drive them out?” 18 But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt. 19 You saw with your own eyes the great trials, the miraculous signs and wonders, the mighty hand and outstretched arm, with which the LORD your God brought you out. The LORD your God will do the same to all the peoples you now fear. (Deuteronomy 7:17-19 NIV)

I�ve got to share one more Scripture with you before we move on to the third benefit of remembering. You all know the story of Jonah. He tried to run from God and ended up as fish food. All hope was gone. It looked like the end had come. Jonah writes,

7 “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, LORD, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple. 8 “Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs. 9 But I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the LORD.” (Jonah 2:7-9 NIV)

The third benefit of remembering is this: humility and gratitude. When left to our devices we will take far more credit for our successes and blessings than we should. Have you ever been guilty of this line of thinking? Something good happens for you, you make �first team,� voted �Homecoming Queen,� get a raise, your child turns out �OK,� you have a good marriage, your business prospers and you think, �I have really done well.� Like Toby Keith you lift your voice and say, �How do you like me now?� This is a sure sign that someone has forgotten. Those who remember know who it is that has given them their abilities, their tenacity, their good looks, or acumen with books or in business.

Moses warned the people about a day when they would experience prosperity and a good life. In Deuteronomy 8:17-18 we read,

17 You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today. (Deuteronomy 8:17-18 NIV)

The fourth benefit that comes from remembering God and what He has done is that we will care for those who are poor and needy. Did you know that there are over 300 verses in God�s Word about the poor? Those verses deal with God�s love for the poor, mistreatment of the poor, and how we are to care for those who suffer because of poverty. Without reminders from God�s Word it is so easy for us to become calloused, draw conclusions about the poor that are generalizations and not necessarily true, and dismiss the poor because they ought to do “this” or “that.” In Deuteronomy 15:11-15 we read,

11 There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land. 12 If a fellow Hebrew, a man or a woman, sells himself to you and serves you six years, in the seventh year you must let him go free. 13 And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed. 14 Supply him liberally from your flock, your threshing floor and your winepress. Give to him as the LORD your God has blessed you. 15 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today. (Deuteronomy 15:11-15 NIV)

We are not �encouraged� to be openhanded towards the poor�we are commanded to help those who are poor. I love verse 15. �Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you.� You may have never been materially impoverished, but each and every one of us knows abject spiritual poverty. What did God do for us? He lifted us up and redeemed us. We are to lift others up, help them get back on their feet, and praise God for the opportunity we have been given to help. I�ve got news for you; we will never do this if we forget. Don�t forget God and His wonderful grace that He has lavished on you or you will forget the blessing of helping those in need.

The fifth benefit of remembering God that I want to share with you this morning is this: Remembering God will lift us out of the pit. You know which pit I�m talking about. The one that makes you not want to get out of bed in the morning. The one that saps your energy. The one that makes every day �gray� whether the sun is shining or not. The walls close in on you. You feel heavy. Your eyes grow dim. Joy is an elusive experience that is reserved for others. Happiness is�hopeless.

I got home from choir on Wednesday night and I was watching the news when they announced that Lisa Myrick had died. Lisa was a radio personality for several years in Oklahoma City on KRXO, KATT, and BOB FM. She was super successful and likable, but she battled addiction. They showed a clip of her on the newscast and she said, �I was making $125,000 a year and I was absolutely miserable.� �The pit� doesn�t care about the balance of your bank account.

Just two days earlier I heard the news about Dr. Wolf and the horrific events that took place at his home in the middle of the night. Evidently Dr. Wolf stabbed his nine year old son to death. I�ve been praying for him and his wife this week. I understand that he has battled depression for many years before he snapped early Monday morning.

On Wednesday he made his first appearance in court and he would barely look up. They have him on suicide watch in the county jail. �The pit� doesn�t care if you�ve been to medical school or that you live in Nichols Hills.

I could go on and on sharing with you the number of people I know who battle depression, emotionally troubled minds. My own mother has battled depression most of her life. I don�t pretend to fully understand, but there is one thing I do know�remembering God is good medicine for the troubled soul. In Psalm 77 we can read about a man writing from the pit.

3 I remembered you, O God, and I groaned; I mused, and my spirit grew faint. Selah 4 You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak. 5 I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; 6 I remembered my songs in the night. My heart mused and my spirit inquired: 7 “Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again? 8 Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? 9 Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?” Selah 10 Then I thought, “To this I will appeal: the years of the right hand of the Most High.” 11 I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. 12 I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. 13 Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God? (Psalm 77:3-13 NIV)

Can you hear it? The echo of the pit? I sure can. He is down. He is questioning everything in his life. Been there. Then in verse 10 the tone begins to shift. �Then I thought, �To this I will appeal: the years of the right hand of the Most High.� I will remember the deeds of the Lord�� Not only is he �remembering,� but he is also �meditating� on what God has done. Our memory of who God is, how He has acted in the lives of others and in our own life, that is the stairwell out of the pit. Let me explain to you why this is so. When we begin to sink down in the pit we become consumed with us. We think about the raw deal that we have gotten, what a loser we are, and how there is nobody else in the world who is suffering what we are suffering. When we set our thoughts on God and how He has acted in the past, His faithfulness, His provision, His mercy and grace, then it takes our focus off of us and places it on Him. What a wonderful assurance! He is able. I am not, but He is. He is able.

All of the benefits that I have shared with you on this Sunday before Thanksgiving can only be experienced with a renewed, transformed mind. Our natural thought processes are not the thoughts that I�ve shared with you this morning. Our natural inclination is to think about what comes most naturally to us�us. �What do I think about this situation? What am I doing? What do I want out of life? How will I go about getting it? Why can�t I be happy? Why can�t I catch a break?� And the list goes on and on and on. God calls us to fix our minds on Him so that we might experience an altered reality full of trust, faith, hope, and possibilities in the midst of heartache and trials. A renewed mind will lead us to ask, �What is God�s will for my life? What is God desiring to teach me as I go through this?� A renewed mind will lead us to remember: �God was faithful to those who have gone before. He was with Abraham, Joshua, Deborah, Barnabas, Paul, and He will continue to be with me as well.� �God used the trials of Jehoshaphat’s life, Jesus� life, Paul�s life, and the lives of countless others to mold them and shape them into the men and women He desired for them to be. He is using this trial in my life to mold and shape me as well.� Do you see how important remembering from a renewed mind is for you and me?

Remembering begins with �knowing.� Knowing that we need a Savior, that we are experts at breaking things, that we can�t do it on our own, and that we need God, desperately need God. I hope this morning that the Lord has shown you how much you need Him. If so, won�t you invite Jesus into your heart as your Lord and Savior?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
Oklahoma City, OK. 73114
November 22, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

A few days later I was driving back from Lincoln, Nebraska with Annie. I told Annie about my conversation with the young lady and then I said, �What if, when we left Lincoln, I asked someone, �Can you tell me how to get to Oklahoma City?� and they said, �Just follow your heart?� Where would that advice get us?� Annie said, �Lost.� And that is where most folks are today�lost. They don�t mean to be lost, they don�t want to be lost, most don�t even think that they are lost, but that doesn�t change the fact that their internal GPS is all messed up and they are off the path that God desires for them.

What I didn�t tell you last week, but what I want to confess this morning is this: I got to talking to Annie and was enjoying our conversation so much that I missed my turn south off of I-80 onto Highway 81. I drove 10 miles out of my way before I recognized that I was lost. Once I realized that I was lost I had to �confess� my sin and �repent.� The word, �repent,� in the Bible means, �to turn around.� And that is exactly what I did. I turned around and got back on track. I was only 50 miles outside of Lincoln when I made that huge mistake. I could have said, �Well, it feels like we are on the right road.� Or �I just need to follow my heart all the way home.� If I would have kept on the same path I would have ended up in San Francisco, California and not at my desired destination. For the rest of the 400 miles of our trip I paid attention, I was disciplined, focused on the task at hand.

The word �discipline� isn�t a word that we use every day. As a matter of fact, it is mostly used when we talk about athletes or what happens to a child when they get in trouble, but for the follower of Jesus, �discipline,� should be a word we are well acquainted with. In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul wrote,

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NIV)

Athletes set goals and work on their games for a medal, trophy, ring, or prize money, but our goal is altogether different and so is our training. I know the commitment that it takes, the discipline that is required of athletes. I also know the discipline, the training that God desires for those who are followers of Jesus. I will tell you there is no comparison. Godly discipline is exacting, arduous, and demanding, far more demanding than the training that athletes undergo. The writer of Hebrews wrote,

11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11 NIV)

�No discipline seems pleasant at the time.� Never was there a more true statement made. As God molds us, shapes us, renews our minds, brings our issues to the surface, leads us to confront them, and crucifies our flesh it is painful is it not? I had a coach in college who used to say, as we were dying from running �gassers,� �If it�s hurtin� it�s helpin� men!� Paul would agree. Godly discipline, godly training, is not pleasant in the moment, but we press on because we know it is God�s best for us. We know that it �produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.�

Now, the truth of the matter is that most of the followers of Jesus are not in the program, they are sitting on the sidelines. It is not that God is unwilling to �train� them, to mold and shape them, build their character, and develop their dependence upon Him. No, that is not the problem. The problem rests in us. We are unwilling to commit ourselves to God�s training. We want to be part of the team, but we refuse to show up for practice. The word �discipline� as defined in the dictionary is:

1. Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior, especially training that
produces moral or mental improvement.
2. Controlled behavior resulting from disciplinary training; self-control.
3. a. A systematic method to obtain obedience: a military discipline.
b. A state of order based on submission to rules and authority: a teacher who demands discipline in the
classroom.
4. Punishment intended to correct or train.

It is the training aspect of discipline that I want us to think about as we study our next section of Romans this morning. Let�s read Romans 12:9-13 as we dig into our lesson for this morning.

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:9-13 NIV)

As we continue our study of Romans 12 we are continuing to witness the unfolding of the progression of Paul�s thought. It is imperative that we keep in mind, or rather that we keep in sight, �God�s mercies,� for it is God�s mercy that is the impetus for everything that follows. It is God�s mercy that leads us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. It is God�s mercy that keeps our estimation of ourselves in check. It is God�s mercy that has placed us within the Body of Christ. It is God�s mercy that has given the Body the rich diversity of gifts and abilities. It is God�s mercy that causes us to recognize the incredible value of each of the gifts God has given to us, as well as the other parts of the Body. And in the Scripture that we will study today, it is God�s mercy that compels us to love the other members of the family of God with a love that is totally other oriented. John MacArthur writes about this type of love when he says,

Agape love centers on the needs and welfare of the one loved and will pay whatever personal price is necessary to meet those needs and foster that welfare. (John MacArthur, MacArthur�s New Testament Commentary: Romans 9-16. The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. 1994)

Paul has used the word �?????� (agape) already in this letter to the Romans, but each time it has been in reference to God�s actions. In Romans 5, Paul was writing about the by-products produced by our struggles when we view them from a godly perspective. Suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope. Then, in Romans 5:5, Paul writes,

5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Romans 5:5 NIV)

Why is our �hope� unfailing? Because of God�s �agape.� God�s unfailing love is the foundation for our hope because we know that God is Sovereign, He is all-powerful, and His will for us is perfect�He knows what He is doing.

Romans 5:8 is one of the best examples of God�s �agape.� Remember MacArthur�s definition of �agape?� This type of love centers on the needs and welfare of the one loved. Let�s read Romans 5:8.

8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)

Amazing love! How else would you describe love that is being beaten and brutalized and yet prays, �Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.� (Luke 23:34 NIV) Who would willingly die for those who were enemies? Why would anyone die for those who beat you, bludgeon your face, and rip your back to shreds? How? Why? Agape.

The greatest need of humanity was not, and is not, education, cures for incurable diseases, or a stronger economy, but it is forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Not only has God�s �agape� accomplished this, but it continues to hold us through every experience, every moment, every trial of life. In Romans 8:35-39 we read of two more instances of God�s �agape.� Read along with me.

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-39 NIV)

How has God�s �agape� acted on our behalf? God has come to us when we had no desire for God whatsoever. God has reconciled us to Himself when we were His declared enemies. God�s love will never ever let us go�no matter what. There is nothing that can pry you out of His gracious, loving hands. Why has God done all of this for you and me? That�s a great question. It is a question with a very uncomplicated answer really. He loves you. He loves me. He does not want us to spend our lives not knowing Him, not understanding His purpose for our lives, and not wasting our lives on ourselves.

There is a second reason for God demonstrating His love for us in such an overwhelming way�He wants us to love others. The love of God is the standard for our love for others. In our Scripture for today God introduces the word, �agape� as the standard for our love for others.

The problem that we see so prevalent in the Church today is that we don�t understand the kind of love that God calls us to have for our brothers and sisters. We are so accustomed to what society calls �love,� but which is really not even close to the �agape� of God. We love those who love us. Our love lasts as long as people treat us right, as long as it is reciprocated by those around us. Much of what our society calls �love� is mere emotion, but God calls us to make a decision to love�through thick and thin, through good times and bad, when it is reciprocated and when it is not. I call this the discipline of love because it is a decision that will press you and me beyond what is comfortable for us.

It is so important that we understand the kind of love that God asks of us because if we don�t have a good understanding we will settle for far less. Now that we understand let�s read again our Scripture for today and see if it does not take on a much deeper meaning.

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:9-13 NIV)

I want to forewarn you. We will not finish this study today. I want us to take our time to understand how we are to relate to one another because how we relate to one another is imperative for the health of the Body of Christ and the local church.

How many times have you heard of churches that have gotten their start because they split off of some other church? A group of folks got mad because they didn�t get their way so they took their marbles and began their own game somewhere else. Or how many folks have gotten their feelings hurt by a pastor or a church member and instead of sitting down, talking things over, and reconciling with them they simply went to a new church. This should not be�not if we are practicing the kind of love that is described for us in Romans 12:9-13.

Paul begins by saying, �Love must be sincere.� I know some of you get bored sometimes with me taking the time to explain to you the meaning of words from the original languages of the Bible, but in this sentence we find one of the great examples of why I take the time to help us understand. First of all, the word �love� used here is the word, �agape.� We now know what that word means. �Agape� is focused on the needs and welfare of the other person. This type of love demands a decision�I will love you regardless. Mere sentiment, pure emotion, will never carry out this type of love.

Secondly, the word, �sincere,� is a very interesting word in Greek. It is the word, �anupokritos� (anupokritos) and it means, �Without hypocrisy, without a mask, unfeigned, undisguised, or sincere.� The word is taken from the Greek theatre. The Greek actors would have various masks to represent the role they were playing. If it was a comical scene then the actor would hold a funny looking mask over their face while speaking their lines. If it was a solemn, dramatic scene, then the mask would reflect the role the actor was portraying. Paul says that our love doesn�t wear masks. We don�t pretend to love folks�we make the decision to really love them. Let me show you a couple of places where this same word is used in Scripture.

In Paul�s letter to the young pastor, Timothy, he urged him to stay in Ephesus and to work towards correcting those whose teaching was in error. Timothy was to point out to them the error of their ways and correct their teaching, not because he wanted to show them up or be a trouble maker, but because of love, �agape� love, which comes from a �sincere� faith, a faith without masks. Read along with me from 1Timothy 1:3-5.

3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God’s work–which is by faith. 5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. (1 Timothy 1:3-5 NIV)

In the last example I want us to look at we will take a look at 1 Peter 1:21-22. Turn there with me and let�s read together.

21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. 22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. (1 Peter 1:21-22 NIV)

Did you notice something truly amazing? Paul says that living out this love God calls us to have for our brothers and sisters is part of a process. Paul says, �Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.� Or, keep on loving one another. The more we follow God�s Word, pursue His will rather than our own, the more we will become like Jesus and His love will permeate our hearts.

What Paul is teaching the church in Rome is a lesson he taught to all believers. You may wonder how I know that since I wasn�t around when Paul was teaching. Well, there is evidence in Paul�s letter to the church in Corinth that we need to look at this morning. In 1 Corinthians 12 Paul wrote about the Body of Christ and the various �members� and �gifts� that are present in the Body. Sound familiar? That is just what he has been writing about in Romans 12. Then in 1 Corinthians 13 he shared the great chapter of love. Let�s read it together.

1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NIV)

If we are eloquent and convincing, but don�t have love we don�t have anything. If we have great biblical knowledge and can explain all of the mysteries of God, but don�t have love then we don�t have anything. If we give all of our money to help meet the needs of the poor, but we don�t have love then we don�t have anything. The kind of love that Paul portrays for us is very specific in its character and nature because it is modeled after the love God has for us. It is patient and kind. It doesn�t envy, it doesn�t boast, and it is not proud. Love is not rude nor does it ring its own bell. Love doesn�t fly off the handle nor does it hold wrongs over the heads of others. Love rejoices over truth and not evil. Love protects others, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. It never fails, it never gives up, it never throws in the towel on others.

The Scripture that we are looking at this morning from Romans 12:9-13 holds before us a replica of the type of love that Paul writes about in 1 Corinthians 13. There are thirteen aspects of the love we are supposed to live out in Romans 12:9-13. They are: 1) Love is to be real, sincere, not faked. 2) Love hates what is evil. 3) Love clings to what is good. 4) Love cares for others with a brotherly affection. 5) Love tries to outdo others in being the first to show honor to others. 6) Love is not lazy, but zealous. 7) Love is bubbling over in the Spirit, Loves great desire is to serve the Lord. 9) Love rejoices in hope. 10) Love is patient in tribulation. 11) Love is constant in prayer. 12) Love desires to help brothers and sisters who are in need. 13) Love goes out of its way to show hospitality to others.

The reason why Paul was so forceful and persistent in pressing the followers of Jesus in his day to embrace the lifestyle of love was because it was this lesson that was most prominent in the teachings of Jesus. When Jesus was asked which of the commandments was the greatest, He said, �love God and love your neighbor.� Turn to Mark 12:28-31 and let�s read together.

28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” 29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:28-31 NIV)

It is my prayer for Britton Christian Church that we will be a church that is known for its love for God and its love for people. You want to honor God? Then love Him enough to do what He says. You want to honor God? Then love people. Really love people. Don�t just love those who are easy to love, love all people in the same way that God loves you.

The key for Britton Christian Church to be known as a church of godly love is for each of us to keep in mind the mercies of God that have been lavished upon us as individuals. If you and I understand the lengths to which God has gone in reconciling us to Himself, blessing us with the gifts and abilities that we possess, and sustaining us through the good times and bad then we will never give up on others. Has God given up on us? You know the answer to that question. He never has and He never will.

There may be someone here this morning who has never truly considered or had explained to you that wondrous love that God has for you. I pray that this morning you have had your eyes opened and your heart has been filled with great understanding. He loves you more than you can even imagine. Will you respond to His love by opening your arms and your heart and inviting Him in as your Lord and King this very morning? He will give you a love for others that you can never have on your own. Won�t you invite Him in?
Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
November 15, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:13-14 NIV)

I don�t want to turn our study this morning into an anatomy and physiology lesson because I don�t know much about either topic, but both fields of study can give us incredible insight into Paul�s lesson about how the Body of Christ is supposed to function. If you would like to know more about the wonders of the human body from a brilliant Christian surgeon who relates anatomy and physiology to God�s creativity and the Body of Christ then you should order Fearfully and Wonderfully Made by Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancey. It will blow your socks off!

I mentioned that our bodies are made up of cells, tissue, organs, and systems that function and cooperate together to make us who we are. We rarely stop to consider the marvel that is our body unless we are in class studying the human body. Think of this for a moment. Each and every one of us began as a single cell. A single cell, and look at us today! In his book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, Dr. Brand writes about how some simple organisms like amoebae can cooperate for the purpose of reproduction then he contrasts this simple process with the miracle of human reproduction.

In contrast, the human body grows from the fertilization of a single egg. In The Medusa and the Snail, Lewis Thomas muses about why people made such a fuss over the test-tube baby in England. The true miracle, he affirms, is the common union of a sperm and egg in a process that ultimately produces a human being. �The mere existence of that cell, he writes, �should be one of the greatest astonishments of the earth. People ought to be walking around all day, all through their waking hours, calling to each other in endless wonderment, talking of nothing but that cell��

Over nine months these cells divide up functions in exquisite ways. Billions of blood cells appear, millions of rods and cones�in all, up to one hundred million million cells form a single fertilized ovum. And finally a baby is born, glistening with liquid. Already his cells are cooperating. His muscles limber up in jerky, awkward movements. His face recoils from the harsh lights and dry air of the new environment; his lungs and vocal chords join in a first air-gulping yell.

Within that gray-colored, wrinkled package of cells lies the miracle of the ecstasy of community. His life will include the joy of seeing his mother�s approval at his first clumsy words, the discovery of his own unique talents and gifts, the fulfillment of sharing with other humans. He is many cells, but he is one organism. All of his hundred trillion cells knows that. (Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancy, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made. Zondervan Publishing. 1980)

I wish that I had the time to read the entire book to you this morning, but we must move on. I do want to point out to you that in Dr. Brand�s book you get the overwhelming sense that each cell in our body is intricately and specifically designed for its unique function within our bodies. Each tissue, each organ, the organization and cooperation of the organs is masterfully, intricately designed for the overall health and well-being of the person.

As we continue to make our way through the twelfth chapter of Paul�s letter to the Church in Rome we have seen how Paul has encouraged the believers to offer themselves for the Lord�s service. He told those who follow Jesus to refuse to allow the pervading culture to mold and shape them, but instead to be transformed by the renewing of their minds through the power of God�s Spirit. He said that as minds are transformed the followers of Jesus will clearly see that God�s plan for each life is better than good, it is perfectly in accordance with His will.

In the Scripture that we studied last week we learned the lesson that Paul taught to the folks in Rome, a lesson that is still so relevant for us today. Paul told us not to think too highly of ourselves, but to keep in mind the grace of God. It is God�s Sovereign grace that has knit us together in our mother�s womb, sought us with passion when we were living life with no thought of God whatsoever, and blessed us in a myriad of ways throughout our life.

Have you recognized a progression in Paul�s lesson during these past three weeks? He began with a view of God�s mercy, moved to our response to that mercy, and then progressed to how we should relate to those around us. This week Paul will develop even further our relationship with those who are followers of Jesus. Let�s take a look at our Scripture for this morning found in Romans 12:4-8.

4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:4-8 NIV)

We are the Body of Christ�a collection of cells, tissue, organs, and systems within the Body of Christ if you will. Designed and created by the gracious, glorious hand of God for the purpose for which He created us. Just as we learned earlier about the make-up of the human body so we should study and learn the make-up of the Body of Christ. Paul says that just as the members of our human body do not all have the same function neither do the members of Christ�s body. There is a beautiful diversity, created by God, within the Body of Christ and yet this diversity is for a united purpose. God has claimed us as His own; He is in the process of renewing our minds and shaping us into the image of His Son for His glory and the building up of the Body. We are God�s chosen instruments to do His will in this world.

There is a great story that has been told through the years. I don�t know if it is true. I�ve checked the story and some say it is an amalgamation of stories passed down through the years, but the story as I�ve heard it goes like this.
After World War II ended, a group of German students volunteered to help rebuild an English Cathedral in London. It had been severely damaged by bombing. They did their work in restoring most of the Cathedral, except for one statue that had been shattered into many pieces. It was a marble statue of Jesus. The statue had originally stood in front of the cathedral with Jesus� arms held open wide towards all who entered the cathedral. The inscription under the statue of Jesus read, �Come unto me.�

The students who were working on restoring the statue were able to find most of the pieces except for Jesus� hands. And so, when they finished their work they had a statue of Jesus with outstretched arms, but no hands. They couldn�t decide what to do. Should they make new hands? Or leave it as it was? They decided to leave the statue as it was. The one thing they did change was the inscription underneath the statue. No longer does it read, �Come unto Me.� Today it reads, �He has no hands but ours.�

We are the Body of Christ. We are His hands, His feet, His eyes, His ears�we are His people called to do His work in this broken and weary world. Just as there is incredible variety in the human body to help enable it to do what it was designed to do so there is incredible variety in the Body of Christ to enable us to do what God has called us to do. The variety in the human body and the variety in the Body of Christ are a gift, a blessing. As varied as the parts of our body are and as varied as we are as the Body of Christ there is something that unites us, something that keeps us working for the common goal for which we were created. It is our �spiritual DNA.� Let me share with you just one more example from Dr. Brand�s book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made that powerfully illustrates the �spiritual DNA� I am talking about by explaining the unity of the diversity of our cells and their work together.

What moves cells to work together? What ushers in the higher specialized functions of movement, sight, and consciousness through the coordination of a hundred trillion cells? The secret to membership lies locked away inside each cell nucleus, chemically coiled in a strand of DNA. Once the egg and sperm share their inheritance, the DNA chemical ladder splits down the center of every gene much as the teeth of a zipper pull apart. DNA re-forms itself each time the cell divides: 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 cells, each with the identical DNA. Along the way cells specialize, but each carries the entire instruction book of one hundred thousand genes. DNA is estimated to contain instructions that, if written out, would fill a thousand six-hundred-page books. A nerve cell may operate according to instructions from volume four and a kidney cell from volume twenty-five, but both carry the whole compendium. It provides each cell�s sealed credential of membership in the body. Every cell possesses a genetic code so complete that the entire body could be reassembled from information in any one of the body�s cells. � . Just as the complete identity code of my body inheres in each individual cell, so also the reality of God permeates every cell in [Christ�s] Body, linking us members with a true, organic bond. I sense that bond when I meet strangers in India or Africa or California who share my loyalty to the Head; instantly we become brothers and sisters, fellow cells in Christ�s Body. I share the ecstasy of community in a universal Body that includes every man and woman in whom God resides. (Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancy, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, Zondervan Publishing. 1980)

The wide variety of the cells in our bodies get their marching orders, their direction, their design and purpose from the DNA. And so it is with us. God�s Word and His Spirit are working within each of us to recreate us, mold us, and direct us in God�s will for which He created us. Our brain cells don�t function for the glory of the brain. Our heart cells don�t beat their own drum. Our kidney cells don�t pour forth their own praise. No, all of these and all the rest do what they do for the glory of the body! And so it is with the �cells,� you and me, within the Body of Christ. We serve, we teach, we show mercy, we organize and administer, we lead not for our glory, but for the glory of God!

In Romans 12, Paul lists some of the variety of the functions of the Body of Christ. Turn to Romans 12:6-8 with me and let�s read.

6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8 NIV)

Paul lists seven �gifts� or functions of the members of the Body of Christ here in Romans 12:6-8, but don�t think that this is an exhaustive list of the functions of God�s people within the Body of Christ. Let me show you some others. Turn with me to 1 Corinthians 12:27 and let�s read.

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 28 And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? (1 Corinthians 12:27-30 NIV)

Here, Paul lists eight different functions of the members of the Body of Christ. In Ephesians 4, Paul gives us another list. In this list Paul recognizes five different functions of some of the members of the Body of Christ. I want you to pay special attention why these parts of the Body do what they do. Read along with me.

11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV)

Why? Why do these five differently gifted parts of the Body do what they do? It�s quite clear isn�t it? It�s not for their own praise and glory, but it is for preparing God�s people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up.

I want you to know that these lists, combined, do not exhaust the list of the gifts that God gives to His people. They do not exhaust the functions of the various parts of the Body of Christ. All of these lists come from the pen of Paul, but Peter has his own list. Turn to 1 Peter 4:10-11 with me.

10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:10-11 NIV)

If you speak, then do so as if you were speaking the very words of God. Isn�t that interesting? What purpose can your speech serve? Well, you can encourage folks with your speech, you can teach people with your speech, you can show mercy with your words, and the list goes on and on. Peter also says, �If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.�

There is a tendency among God�s people to want to codify things�to put them into some kind of legalistic structure. People who like this kind of thing will take all of the functions or gifts listed and write a book or create a website called, �Spiritual Gifts� and want the rest of us to try and find our particular function within the Body from their list. Well, I�m not one of those folks. These gifts that we�ve read are some of the ways that God has gifted His people, but there are many other functions, or gifts, that aren�t in any of these lists. I want to give you an example of what I am talking about. Turn with me to Exodus 35:30-35 and let�s see how God has gifted His people in ways that fall outside of the lists in the New Testament. This Scripture details for us how God gifted people so that the �tent of meeting,� the place where God would meet with His people, might be built. Read along with me.

30 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 31 and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts– 32 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 33 to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship. 34 And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. 35 He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers–all of them master craftsmen and designers. (Exodus 35:30-35 NIV)

Look at the wide variety and the common purpose of all of these that God gifted! In another Scripture, 2 Samuel 23:1, we see that God gifted David to sing and write music. That�s not a gift He has given me!

1 These are the last words of David: “The oracle of David son of Jesse, the oracle of the man exalted by the Most High, the man anointed by the God of Jacob, Israel’s singer of songs: (2 Samuel 23:1 NIV)

Here at Britton Christian Church we are seeing the manifestation of the wide variety of the gifts that God has given His people. We are the Body of Christ in a local setting. God has a purpose for this church and He has gathered people from across this city that possess unique gifts which perfectly fit into this Body. Why has He done this? So that we might be able to do what He has purposed us to do. Let me give you just a sampling of what I am talking about.
As I was writing this lesson on Thursday I got an email from Herman about our Care Calendar for Troy Freeman. There are those who signed-up to take meals to Troy once he gets out of the hospital following his surgery. Is making a meal for someone a gift? Not only is it a gift to Troy, but it a function within the Body of Christ, it helps us to be what God has called us to be.

In less than one month we will provide you with an opportunity to help us provide 500 turkeys for the Britvil Food Pantry so that families in our community who are struggling financially can have a good Thanksgiving. The turkeys are $10 each. Is buying a turkey a gift, a function of some of the parts of Body for the purpose of bringing glory to God? In Romans 12, Paul says, �if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously;�

Each week elementary school and middle school kids come to this church to receive help with their homework and encouragement for their daily life. Those adults who come to this church and help these kids are gifted are they not? They are teaching, they are encouraging, they are performing their function, and they are using their gifts, for the glory of God and the building up of the Body of Christ.

Each Wednesday night there is another group of people who come to this church to lift their voices in song. Those 20-30 people are gifted by God and they are using their gift for the glory of God and the blessing of the Body of Christ.

We have a team at this church called the �Chesed Ministry Team.� The folks who are part of this team work with those who are grieving, shut-in and unable to get out of their house, and in the hospital. The wonderful people who are part of this team are serving for the glory of God.

We have a group of folks who, during the week, spend their evenings preparing their lessons for the Bible classes they teach during the week. Some of them may not visit hospitals, some may not be able to cook a meal, but they are functioning in the place where God has gifted them for His glory. Thank you teachers for what you do!

This past week some of us went down to The Refuge and learned about their wonderful ministry to a mostly homeless population in downtown Oklahoma City. Our community is different. There are many in this community who are �working poor.� They have jobs, but still find it difficult to make ends meet. We are able to help those who come to us who find themselves in a tight spot through our �Work Program.� Just this week there was a young woman whose husband works construction that came to our church for help. Because of the rainy weather we�ve been having recently he had missed work and they have fallen behind on their utilities. She worked with Herman Green for a couple of days and made some money to help her family. We sent a check to OG&E to be applied to their bill. Is that part of our �function� as a church? You better believe it is.

She and her family, because they don�t have health care visit the medical clinic that we started many years ago. At the King�s Klinic there are Christian doctors, nurses, and support staff who see their abilities as a gift from God to be used to bless people and glorify God. Thank you for serving out your calling for the blessing of God�s people.

There are probably times that she and her family, when they�ve been in a tight spot, have visited the food pantry that several of our churches started many years ago. The Britvil Food Pantry takes Matthew 25 serious. Jesus said, �I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.� Later in that chapter He said, �I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.�

You�ve probably noticed that things are changing around here. Trees have been cleared off, houses are getting ready to be moved, and a new parking lot will take their place. There are men and women who are working on that project that are gifted by God. I�ve met with them and I can tell you they are gifted by God. I don�t know a thing about what they are doing, but God has gifted them and they are functioning, they are serving out of the gifts that God has given them. What a blessing.

Every year we take a group of about 100 kids from this neighborhood and from this church to a camp called Kids Across America in Branson, MO. It is a great camp, but most of the kids who go with us wouldn�t be able to go if it weren�t for the generosity of others who underwrite that trip. Are those who contribute to help kids get to camp gifted by God? Paul says they are.

I could go on and on citing for you all of the wonderful ways that the Body of Christ is working together at Britton Christian Church. How does all of this happen in such a small church? It�s quite simple really. God has gifted His people. He has called people from all over this city to this place so that our gifts might fit together, diverse as they are; they are used for one purpose, for the purpose of bringing glory to God and the blessing of people.

Oh, can�t you see? Can�t you see that God has a purpose and a plan for your life? Before we come to know Jesus we are just ambling through life doing whatever we think is best, but when Jesus opens our eyes and we cry out to Him to come live in our hearts, then He redirects our course. No longer do I view my gifts as mine, they are His, to be used for the purpose for which He has given them to me. Once again, it all starts at the Cross. When we come to Jesus our life begins to take on added meaning and definition that we never knew before. If you don�t know Jesus as Lord of your life this morning then won�t you invite Him in?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
November 1, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

We had a great time tonight at the Fall Festival in our gym! There were so many folks having a blast and smiles were everywhere. I want to thank all of you who worked soooo hard to pull everything together. You are the best!

I took some pictures to capture the moment. Click on the pic and it will take you to an “album” for you to enjoy.

In His Steps,
Mike

BCC Fall Festival 2009

If you were to ask people, �What does it mean to be able to �think?� you would get a wide variety of responses. One young man named, Mohit Garg, is a graduate of The Indian Institute of Technology in Bombay, India. Mohit was born in New Delhi, India, he is a Hindu, and has a Master�s Degree in Computer Applications. He had this to say about �thinking.�

Man is nothing but a collection of thoughts. Life is nothing but a series of happenings. Yet, both these have been the subject of intense speculation and debate since the birth of history. What does it mean to be human? What does it mean to be able to think? What is life? What is birth? and What is death? I am trying to find out… I hope you are too… (http://www.mohrahit.in/think/thoughts.html)

I don�t know Mohit, but I read through his resume this past week and there is no doubt that he has far more brain cells than I do. He understands the miracle of thinking, although he wouldn�t refer to it as a miracle. He would say that our thoughts are nothing more than an assessment of the series of happenings that we encounter in life.

There are many who think that to be a Christian means that you check your brain at the door. You can�t be a Christian and think reasonably or deeply about anything. Bill Maher, the host of HBO�s �Real Time with Bill Maher� appeared on MSNBC�s �Scarborough�s Country� back in 2005. Mr. Maher has been very outspoken about religion and his idea that being �religious� is a neurological disorder. Mr. Maher, on Joe Scarborough�s program, had this to say,

We are a nation that is unenlightened because of religion. I do believe that. I think that religion stops people from thinking. I think it justifies crazies. I think flying planes into a building was a faith-based initiative. I think religion is a neurological disorder. If you look at it logically, it’s something that was drilled into your head when you were a small child. It certainly was drilled into mine at that age. And you really can’t be responsible when you are a kid for what adults put into your head�When you look at beliefs in such things as, do you go to heaven, is there a devil, we have more in common with Turkey and Iran and Syria than we do with European nations and Canada and nations that, yes, I would consider more enlightened than us�When people say to me, ‘You hate America,’ I don’t hate America. I love America. I am just embarrassed that it has been taken over by people like evangelicals, by people who do not believe in science and rationality. It is the 21st century. And I will tell you, my friend. The future does not belong to the evangelicals. The future does not belong to religion. (Bill Maher, February 18, 2005, http://tinyurl.com/ygzf5ej)

Bill Maher�s thoughts are hardly new, the product of a post-Christian America. Long before Maher was ever born there were those who held these same beliefs about those who unashamedly profess their love for Jesus and their faith in God�s Word as the ultimate source of Truth.

Robert Ingersoll was the son of a Presbyterian preacher, but he didn�t follow in his father�s footsteps. Robert went to Law School, passed the Bar, fought in the Civil War, and later became the Attorney General for the state of Illinois. He was most known for his speaking skills. The famous poet, Walt Whitman, considered Ingersoll the greatest orator of his time. Robert Ingersoll held the same opinions as Bill Maher, only his thoughts preceded Maher�s by over one hundred years. Ingersoll once wrote, in his book called, The Gods and Other Lectures,

The doctrine that future happiness depends upon belief is monstrous. It is the infamy of infamies. The notion that faith in Christ is to be rewarded by an eternity of bliss, while a dependence upon reason, observation and experience merits everlasting pain, is too absurd for refutation, and can be relieved only by that unhappy mixture of insanity and ignorance, called ‘faith.’ What man, who ever thinks, can believe that blood can appease God? And yet, our entire system of religion is based upon that belief. The Jews pacified Jehovah with the blood of animals, and according to the Christian system, the blood of Jesus softened the heart of God a little, and rendered possible the salvation of a fortunate few. It is hard to conceive how the human mind can give assent to such terrible ideas, or how any sane man can read the Bible and still believe in the doctrine of inspiration. (Robert G. Ingersoll, The Gods, 1872)

Christianity is not opposed to �thinking.� As a matter of fact, we are told over and over again throughout Scripture, to think. Thinking, the willingness to use our minds to reflect and process the experiences of life, is a great commonality between those who are followers of Jesus and those who are not. The difference is not willingness on the part of unbelievers and unwillingness on the part of believers to use our brains, but it is the beginning point of our thoughts. For unbelievers, their beginning point is �anthropocentric,� with humanity at the center of their thoughts, where, for the believer, we are supposed to begin from a �theocentric� foundation, with God at the center of our thoughts. Miriam Webster�s online dictionary defines, �anthropocentric� as,

1. Considering human beings as the most significant entity of the universe.
2. Interpreting or regarding the world in terms of human values and experiences.

The same dictionary defines, �theocentric� as, �having God as the central interest and ultimate concern.� We all have minds capable of thinking, believer and unbeliever alike, but we, as believers, part company with unbelievers because of the �lens� we use to interpret life�s experiences and the thoughts we hold about our experiences and the world around us. Let me give you an example of what I am talking about. Mark Twain once wrote, �If I were to construct a God I would furnish Him with some ways and qualities and characteristics which the Present lacks.� There is the problem and the problem is still with us today my friends. The Bible says that God made us in His image. Our desire and ambition is to remake God in our image.

Today�s lesson from Romans 12:3 is a great example of these two opposing viewpoints. Our lesson will be from a theocentric perspective. We are going to read Romans 12:3-8 just so we can set the context for verse 3. Let�s read our Scripture and then we will dig in. Read along with me.

3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. 4 Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7 If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8 if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:3-8 NIV)

The first two verses of Romans 12 were a clear call for us to use our minds when you stop to think about it. Paul urges the Christians in Rome and all of us today to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God. If you will remember, he said, �I urge you, in view of God�s mercies, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices�� What he is saying is, �Think about the rich mercy of God that has been showered upon your life. Think about all that we have talked about in Romans 1-11. Think about how you Gentiles, who were once no people, without hope and without God, have been claimed by God�s grace. Think about all of these things, all of the manifestations of God�s mercy in your own life, and see if it is not now reasonable for you to offer your bodies, the totality of who you are, for His service.

Now, in Romans 12:3, Paul once again urges us to use the minds that God has given us, but to use them in the right way. He says, �Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.� You can�t see it in your English translation, but in this one verse Paul uses the Greek word for �think� four times, in two of his uses, the first and the last, there is a prefix added to give us a better understanding.

In the first instance, where Paul says, �do not think more highly of yourself�� he uses the Greek word, �??????????� (huperphroneo) which means, �to think more highly of one’s self than is proper.� The prefix, �huper,� might be better understood by us if I were to say, �hyper.� You know the meaning of that word. We use it to elevate whatever it is that we are talking about. Some kids are active and others are �hyperactive.� Some people are sensitive and others are �hypersensitive.� All of us are born with a Thyroid which produces two important hormones which regulate our metabolism, but for some who have hyperthyroidism, the amount of hormone produced by the thyroid is too much. Paul says that we are to think about ourselves, but not in a �hyper� kind of way, an elevated manner.

Paul wrote to the folks in Corinth, a messed up church if there ever was one. One of their many problems was that they were choosing sides. Some admired Apollos, others admired Paul, and some admired Cephas, or Peter. Paul pointed them away from idolizing the servants of Jesus. Paul had this to say to these brothers and sisters.

6 Now, brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, “Do not go beyond what is written.” Then you will not take pride in one man over against another. 7 For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? (1 Corinthians 4:6-7 NIV)

�Don�t think of yourself more highly than you ought�� Paul tells the people of Corinth that they are no different than anyone else. Everything they have they received from God, as a gift. Paul prompts their thinking when he says, �And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you accomplished it on your own?� Now that is thinking from a theocentric posture.

Paul wants all people to think from the same beginning point�God. We are not the focus of the Universe, but God is. This is the only kind of thinking that will keep us with the right perspective in life and on life, not only about ourselves, but about those around us as well.

In Galatians 6, Paul gives instructions to the people about how to deal with people who are ensnared in sin. He says that they are to �gently restore� them, but to be on their guard so that they are not caught in the same trap. Paul follows this instruction by saying, �Carry each other�s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.� (Galatians 6:2 NIV) The next verse is interesting because Paul, in Galatians 6:1-2, is talking about sin and those who get ensnared in sin, and how we are to help them get out of the prison they never dreamed they would find themselves in. In the very next verse he writes,

3 If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. (Galatians 6:3 NIV)

What does that have to do with what Paul has just written? Well, it has everything to do with it. We are not to look down upon those who are being destroyed by sin, but we are to help them while at the same time realizing that we are just as vulnerable as they are. How different is this from the thinking of an anthropocentric culture?

In our society those caught in sin are made headlines, they are the brunt of jokes, and they are the measuring stick that all of us look for when we want to make ourselves look good. That�s anthropocentric thinking, but theocentric thinking leads us to different thoughts: Those caught in sin are people created by God, loved by God, and He grieves over the sin that destroys us. Because of these truths we are compelled to care for, rather than mock, those who are ensnared in sin. How different are these two kinds of thinking?!

Let�s go back to Romans 12:3 for a minute. In this verse Paul urges us not to think more highly of ourselves than we should, but to have a proper perspective on ourselves. Read it with me.

3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. (Romans 12:3 NIV)

I showed you earlier in our study that the first of the four Greek words for �think� used in verse 3 was �??????????� (huperphroneo), to think too highly of ourselves. The last of the four instances of �think� is also a word with a prefix attached and it is the word, �?????????� (sophronein) which literally means, �of sound mind.� Some of the ways that Bible translators have translated this word are, �soberly, �to have sound judgment,� or �to be honest in your evaluation of yourself.� The Theological Dictionary of the New Testament says,

The term has such nuances as �rational� (intellectually sound), �rational� (without illusion), �rational� (purposeful), �moderate,� �prudent,� �modest,� �restrained,� and �disciplined.� (TDNT. pg 1150-1151.)

Simply to say that we, being of sound mind, think �thus-and-so� about ourselves leaves a lot of room for error. I know many brilliant people who have very sound minds from a medical, psychological standpoint and yet their thinking is not biblically sound at all. The word doesn�t mean, �humbly,� it means, �to have a correct assessment of ourselves. Eugene Peterson, in his translation of the Bible, called The Message, translates Romans 12:3 like this:

3 I�m speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it�s important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him. (Romans 12:3 The Message)

Did you notice the very last sentence? �The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what He does for us, not by what we are and what we do for Him.� That�s it! Don�t miss it! The beginning of sound thought, rational thought, godly thinking, is God. Thinking that leads to godly living begins with God. In Titus 2:11-12, we read,

11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age� (Titus 2:11-12 NIV)

Let�s go back to Romans 3 as we get ready to close out our study. Paul says that our �sober� thinking should be linked to something. Not the comparison of ourselves with those around us or an assessment of where we are compared to where we use to be, or think we should be, but �in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.� Different people have read this phrase in varying ways. Some read it as, �Think of yourself in accordance with the measure of your actual trust in God.� Others have read it as, �Think of yourself in accordance with the faith that God has given you.� And the reading that I believe is most accurate is, �Think of yourself in accordance with the specific gifts and talents that God has given to you.� I think this is the best way to read it because of what is to follow. Paul is going to talk about the diversity of the Body of Christ and the many gifts that God has given to His people for the building up of the Body as we serve one another. We are not to think too highly of ourselves because we are to view the Body of Christ as the beautiful Body that God has arranged in His wisdom, endowing each person with the unique gifts and talents they possess for the blessing of the whole Body. James Montgomery Boice writes,

So part of a genuine humility has to do with understanding the spiritual endowments God has given us, taking this seriously, and beginning to use those gifts for God. This is exactly where the remainder of this paragraph is going, of course. For after teaching us in the next two sentences that the church is made up of many diverse members and that these members possess different spiritual gifts, Paul continues: �If a man�s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.� (vv. 6-8) (James Montgomery Boice, Romans, Vol. 4. Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI. 1995. Pg. 1570)

This gift you have is a gift from God. You didn�t create it; you are a steward of it. What gift am I talking about? Well, we will get around to that next week, but suffice it to say that each and every one of us have been blessed by God with abilities, talents, gifts from God to be used to bless, serve, and build up the Body of Christ and to bring glory and honor to God. Some of you may say, �I honestly don�t think I have any gifts. There is nothing that I do really well.� I would disagree with you. Each and every one of us has been blessed by God with at least one gift, one ability, that is to be used to bless and build up the Body of Christ.

Today there are all kinds of �spiritual inventory� tests or �spiritual gifts� tests that you and I can take to try and discover what our spiritual gifts are. I have taken some of these tests and they are fine for those who want to take them, they can even be helpful in giving us some kind of idea where we might get involved in ministry. I do want you to know that even the best �spiritual gifts� test will fall short of exhausting the multitude of gifts that God has given to His people. I like what John MacArthur has to say about this. He writes,

Even when all that is done, it still may be impossible to fully analyze and specifically identify our spiritual gift. It is often not possible to distinguish between God-given natural talent, God-given spiritual abilities, and Holy Spirit power. When a Christian�s life is a living sacrifice to God and he is walking in the Spirit of God, he has no reason to make precise distinctions, because everything he is and has is committed to the Lord. Oversimplifying and overdefining spiritual gifts can cause great confusion, frustration, discouragement, and limitation of their usefulness. Focusing too much on the gifts themselves can hinder their faithful use in the Lord�s service. (John MacArthur, MacArthur�s New Testament Commentary: Romans 9-16. The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago.)

The key for us is not in finding the perfect �spiritual gifts inventory� test to take, but in recognizing that it is all of God, for us to think theocentrically. If I believe that whatever gifts and talents I possess have come about because of my creativity and ingenuity then I may or not use those abilities. Most often, if this is my starting point for understanding life and specifically my life, then I will use those abilities to further myself and raise my stock in the community. On the other hand, if I understand that all that I am is a gracious gift from God then that will move me to use my time, my talent, and every aspect of my life for the purpose for which God has created me.

How do you change your perspective on life and especially your life? That�s the key question for us isn�t it? Well, the answer is to take off your anthropocentric glasses and see through new eyes�theocentric eyes that allow you to view life with God as the Initiator, the Cause, the Purpose, the Giver and Sustainer of all things. Where do you find these �glasses?� You find them at the Cross. If you would but ask Jesus to come into your heart, forgive you of your sin, and be your Lord, Master of your life, then He will give you a brand new perspective on life. Won�t you ask Him in?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 731114
October 25, 2009

I’ve just finished our study on Romans 12:3 for this coming Sunday. Wow! Each and every week I am overwhelmed by God’s goodness and the rich lessons He is teaching me as I study His Word. This Sunday’s lesson is called, “Thoughts That Lead to Godly Living.” I’m writing this today to get you to think about something before Sunday rolls around. Here it is. Are you ready? What do you see? Do you see Anthropocentrically or Theocentrically? Don’t let those two big words confuse you or cause you to shy away from the question. I want you to take our your dictionary, Google those two words, or easier still, I’ve linked them to the dictionary for you so just click on the word and you’ll learn something new. After you learn the definition then answer the question again. I found a quote from my favorite preacher, Pastor Spurgeon, to give a little hint at why the answer to the question makes all the difference in the world as to what you see. I hope to see you Sunday.

Just as the earth is not the centre of the universe, so man is not the grandest of all beings. God has been pleased highly to exalt man; but we must remember how the psalmist speaks of him: �When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; what is man, that thou art mindful of him; and the son of man, that thou visitest him?� In another place, David says, �Lord, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of him! or the son of man, that thou makest account of him! Man is like to vanity: his days are as a shadow that passeth away.� Man cannot be the centre of the theological universe, he is altogether too insignificant a being to occupy such a position, and the scheme of redemption must exist for some other end than that of merely making man happy, or even of making him holy. The salvation of man must surely be first of all for the glory of God; and you have discovered the right form of Christian doctrine when you have found the system that has God in the centre, ruling and controlling according to the good pleasure of his will. Do not dwarf man so as to make it appear that God has no care for him; for if you do that, you slander God. Give to man the position that God has assigned to him; by doing so, you will have a system of theology in which all the truths of revelation and experience will move in glorious order and harmony around the great central orb, the Divine Sovereign Ruler of the universe, God over all, blessed for ever. (Charles Haddon Spurgeon, Lectures to my Students.)

Where our “thinking” begins makes all the difference in how we experience and understand life. Not just “theologically,” but experientially. He is the beginning and the end. He is not only the “First Cause,” but the “Final Answer.” I hope you will make plans to be with us on Sunday so that we can huddle around God’s Word and learn together.

In His Steps,
Mike

Well, the rain has stopped and the demo team has moved in to remove all of the trees so that the next crew can come in and move the houses which will “pave” the way for the new parking lot to begin! Wooo hooooo! It’s been a long time in the making, but now things are starting to happen that can be seen. I hope you are as excited as I am. Please keep our Building Team in your prayers as they move forward with the plans.

In His Steps,
Mike

There are others who put a twist on the battle for the mind. They are mostly people who are trying to win the minds of the general population to build their business, bolster their political agendas, or gain support for their particular causes. You don�t have to read very long to realize that our minds are valuable real estate for those on Madison Avenue, Wall Street, and in the halls of political power.

When we come to Romans 12:1-2 we read Paul�s advice to the folks in Rome and to those of us who are followers of Jesus today. Paul writes,

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2 NIV)

Last week we focused our attention on Romans 12:1. We learned that everything that Paul urges us to do in Romans 12 is predicated upon what we have learned in Romans 1-11. These eleven chapters can best be summed up as an expression of �God�s mercies,� and that is why Paul urges us, �in view of God�s mercies� to present our bodies as living sacrifices to be used by God.

This week I want us to focus our time on taking a look at Romans 12:2. Paul says, �Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.� Words mean things and it is vitally important that we understand what Paul means when he uses words like �conform,� �world,� �transform,� and �mind.� Paul�s first command is a negative��Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world�� The Greek word that is translated, �conform� is the word, �???????????� (suschematizo) and it means, �to form or mold after some model.�

The easiest way to understand what Paul is talking about is to think about water. You can have ten different containers, all shaped differently, but when you fill the container with water it will �conform� to the shape of each container. The container shapes the water, the water doesn�t shape the container. This is what we, as followers of Jesus, are to stop doing–stop being “shaped” by our culture.

The word found here in Romans 12:2 is in the �passive� voice which means there is a force working on you to form you. With that understanding we can know that Paul is saying, �Don�t allow yourself to be conformed to, or to be shaped by, the pattern of this world.� What we are talking about is influence. We are not to be influenced by the mindset and pattern of life which is popularized by our culture.

That leads us to the second important word for us to understand, the word, �world.� The Greek word that is translated, �world,� is �????� (aion) and it means, �period of time,� �age,� �a long time,� and sometimes it means, �world.� This is such an important word for us to understand because there is a tendency among us Christians to identify �world� with conduct instead of mindset. Make no mistake about it, we are not to emulate the conduct of those who do not follow Jesus, but here in Romans 12:1-2 Paul is taking us deeper than mere conduct. We�ll talk more about that, but first let me show you some examples of the different uses of the word so that you can better understand. In 1 Corinthians 3:18-20 Paul writes,

18 Do not deceive yourselves. If any one of you thinks he is wise by the standards of this age, he should become a “fool” so that he may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; 20 and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” (1 Corinthians 3:18-20 NIV)

The NIV nails it! In verse 18, �the standards of this age,� is the same idea that we are looking at in Romans 12:2. Let�s take a look at another use of the same word, but this time is means, �world.� Paul writes to Timothy and says, in 1 Timothy 6:17.

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. (1Timothy 6:17 NIV)

The command is pretty straightforward isn�t it? Those who are wealthy in this world should never put their hope in their wealth, but they should put their hope in God. On a side note, Paul says that the wealthy are not to be arrogant or put their hope in their wealth, �which is so uncertain.� It�s that last phrase that I want you to think about. Wealth is so uncertain isn�t it? There are those who have wealth that think, �Now I have made it, it�s going to be clear sailing from here on in.� The truth of the matter is they don�t know what the future holds. The statement, made by Paul almost 2,000 years ago, sure rings a bell in the present economy doesn�t it? How many wealthy people have watched their wealth dwindle in the last couple of years?

There are those like former NBA player, Rumeal Robinson, whose clutch free throws won the National Championship for Michigan in 1989. When Rumeal left college he was chosen in the first round of the NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks. He got a five year contract worth $4.29 million! Rumeal�s last season in the NBA was 1998. Eleven years later he is homeless after throwing his money away on strippers, guns, and tons of trinkets and toys. A story I read this past week said that he would spend $20,000 a night at strip clubs. (Rumeal Robinson’s story)

There are those like Rumeal who throw their money away, but there are many more who watch their wealth dwindle through no fault of their own, but because of unforeseen changes in the economy. Markets change, consumer�s interests change, new products are introduced that drive the demand for other products down, new technologies make older technologies unwanted or even obsolete, corporations and businesses who use to be the hot item are replaced by other corporations and businesses who promise to do more with less, and the list goes on concerning the variables that contribute to the uncertainty of wealth.

Let�s get back to our task of trying to get a grip on what Paul means by �world.� The last example that I want to show you is found in Titus 2:11-12. Paul writes,

11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age� (Titus 2:11-12 NIV)

Dr. David Darnell writes,

We are surrounded by a particular �time,� or �age,� and we live in a �world� of culture, that sets all kinds of examples and demands for people living in it. In different times and cultures, differing life-styles and habits of behavior become the �in thing� to do, and culture exercises a heavy pressure upon everyone in society to conform. (Dr. David Darnell, Commentary on Romans 12, pg. 580)

Now, hopefully we have a better understanding of what Paul means when he says, �Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world�� It is not just the world and its ways in general that he is talking about, but it is the specific cultural phenomenon, the cultural mindset, that is taking place in our time, in this place. What are those cultural trends that we are to resist giving into? Well, they are many, but some of the things I see as most prominent in our culture are relativism�the idea that all thoughts and ways of life are equal. It is all relative. Whatever fits you best is best for you. No thought is given to whether or not these choices are right, God-honoring, or for the benefit of the community. I shared two other cultural truths with you last week. Can you remember them? The first one was the philosophy of �I.� I am the center of the Universe and what I want for me is most important. Secondly, I shared with you the �pleasure principle.� Whatever makes me happy and brings me pleasure is what I should pursue in life.

I mentioned to you earlier that �conform� is in the passive voice in Greek which means that it is done to us. Most people that I know, including myself, never intend to allow popular culture to have such an influence on us. We didn�t �intend� to do what we have done or to become what we have become�it just happened. Which is exactly Paul�s point. There are those who intentionally set out on a quest to achieve what the world says is important, but most Christians that I know simply fail to live with intentionality for the cause of Christ. As times passes, low and behold they end up thinking like the rest of those around them. Our culture is determined to cast you and me into its mold and unless we live with intentionality, counter culturally, then you can bet it will accomplish its goal.

Let�s move on. Paul says that rather than allowing our culture to shape us, we are to �be transformed by the renewing of our minds.� The Greek word translated, �transformed,� is the word, �??????????� (metamorphoo) and it means, �to change into another form, to transform, or to transfigure.� This is the word that we get our English word, �metamorphosis� from. Like the word, �conform,� this word is also in the passive voice in Greek, which means that something is being done to us. Probably the most well-known process of metamorphosis is the changing of a caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly. The change happens to the caterpillar. It is part of the plan of God for caterpillars. Just like God�s plan for the caterpillar, God has a plan for those who will trust in Him with all of their hearts�He will transform them into the image of His Son.

There are only two places in the New Testament where we can look to see this same word used. Both places are very helpful for helping us understand this process of transformation that Paul is talking about. The first instance is found in Mark 9:2-3. Let�s read together.

2 After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. 3 His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. (Mark 9:2-3 NIV)

Jesus was changed, He was transformed, or as Mark says, �He was transfigured.� Jesus didn�t decide that He would transform Himself right before the eyes of Peter, James, and John�God transformed Him. In the next Scripture I want us to take a look at we will see even clearer how this transformation takes place. Read along with me from 2 Corinthians 3:17-18.

17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NIV)

Did you notice that? We �are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory�� We don�t have the power to transform ourselves, but God is in the process of transforming us, sanctifying us, changing us more and more into the image of His Son.

How does this process of transformation take place? Great question. Do you buy a self-help book? Sign-up for one of Oprah�s online classes? Do we get serious about what we are doing? Make a chart? Write a list of ten things to do every day? You can do all of those things, but Paul has a different recommendation for us. Go back to Romans 12:2 with me. What does Paul say?

2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2 NIV)

Paul says to be �transformed by the renewing of your mind.� This isn�t the only place where Paul speaks about the importance of the mind in battling old thought patterns which come naturally to us. In Ephesians 4:20-24, Paul tells us,

20 But you did not learn Christ in this way, 21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, 22 that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, 23 and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. (Ephesians 4:20-24 NAS)

The phrase, �in the spirit of your mind,� speaks to a deeper reality than simply examining the gray matter of our brains. D. Martyn-Lloyd Jones makes a very good point about the difference between our minds and the �spirit of our minds� when he writes,

This is a very important point because the mind, as such, is really just a neutral instrument. Take a man who is not a Christian, but then is converted. There is a sense in which he always has the same mind. A man who was rather dull and lacking in ability does not suddenly become a genius because he has become a Christian! Your faculties and powers are not changed when you are regenerate.

There are men and women in our world who are brilliant, who have wonderful brains�quick and alert. Yes, but they are using that ability to some base and unworthy end. That is one of the great tragedies of life today, is it not? You must not say that these people who blaspheme and utter foul things on the television are unintelligent. That is not their trouble�The trouble is not in their minds, it is in the thing that controls their minds. The thing that matters in a person is �the spirit of the mind,� that essence, that ultimate power of control which determines everything else. (D. Martyn-Lloyd Jones, Exposition of Chapter 12: Christian Conduct. The Banner of Truth Trust: Edinburgh. 2000. pg. 106-107.)

Our mind begins to be renewed as we relinquish control, stop allowing our culture and our desires to control us, and submit our minds to God. We are born with a certain mindset, it is a mindset that is set on us, but once we come to know Christ that mindset is incompatible with the life we are now called to live. Turn with me to Ephesians 2:1-5 and you will be better able to understand what I am talking about. Paul writes,

1As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions–it is by grace you have been saved. (Ephesians 2:1-5 NIV)

Paul says that all of us use to follow our sin nature, its thoughts and desires. �Use to� is past tense. Present tense we belong to God, He has claimed us as His own, He has set His Spirit in our hearts, and He is shaping us, molding us, not according to the pervading culture, but into the image of His Son.

We must train our minds. Like an athlete trains his body. Like a surgeon sharpens her skills. Like a speaker strengthens his command of the English language and rapport with the audience. Like a singer shapes her voice. Like a craftsman honing his abilities. A follower of Jesus must train his or her mind as God works to mold our minds. If you will remember last week Paul urged us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. He said that this offering is our reasonable act of worship or service. Our bodies, like our minds, must be trained. They were once used for ungodly purposes, but now they have been called into God�s service. This is why Paul wrote,

25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:25-27 NIV)

The renewal of our minds is both a passive and an active transformation. God initiates the transformation when Christ comes to live in our hearts. Apart from God’s power we might alter our behavior to some degree, a reformation might happen from time to time, but there would be no hope of a transformation apart from God�s work in our minds. At the same time we are called to actively work with what God is doing. In Colossians 3:2-3 Paul wrote,

2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:2-3 NIV)

�Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.� What are we to set our minds on? What is the transformation that God is bringing about in our lives? That�s a great question. We need to know the answer. The transformation is from being oriented to our will, to embracing God�s will for our lives. This is why Paul says in Romans 12:2,

2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2 NIV)

By not conforming, but being transformed by the renewing of our minds, then we will be able to test and approve what God�s will is�His good, pleasing and perfect will. Paul is telling us that those who renew their minds will be able to discover certain things about the will of God. We will be able to know that God�s will is good, absolutely good, the best plan for our life that could ever be. We will be pleased with God�s plan for our life instead of second guessing God all the time. We will be able to know that God in His Sovereignty has planned a perfect course for our life. Not our will, not our plan, not our desires or wants, but God�s will alone is all of these things.

This is so important for us to understand. For most of us, we believe these things about God and His will for our lives as long as things are going well for us. When the bills are paid, sickness is still visiting someone else�s house, our kids are well-behaved, and our team is on the winning track, then God is good and His work in our lives is good as well. When things go �south� and we lose our job, we find that our health is failing, our spouse walks out on us, or our kids are struggling then we begin to question God. We certainly wouldn�t have done it that way. We think our plan is so much better than God�s plan. The person who willingly works with God in the training of their mind learns that God�s will is good, even though it may not be enjoyable, it is pleasing in that we are satisfied that He knows what He is doing, and we know that it is perfect, even though we continue to suffer from many imperfections. That is why Paul was able to write in Romans 8:28.

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:28-29 NIV)

Aw, there�s that word again. The word, �conform.� Did you notice? We are not to conform any longer to the pattern of the world because God is in the process of transforming us so that we are conformed to the likeness of His Son. Wow! What an amazing truth! Erwin Lutzer says, �The difference between worldliness and godliness is a renewed mind.�

Some people believe that information is what is lacking for us to fix what is wrong with us and our world. Others believe that the reformation of our ways, policies, and practices will bring about the desired outcomes. God�s Word is quite clear�it is not information or reformation, but rather it is transformation that can bring about lasting change in our hearts and minds.

Real change begins at the Cross. When we surrender our lives to Christ, lay down our fixation on ourselves, humble ourselves and admit that not only are we not right, but we don�t even begin to know what �right� is, then and only then can God begin to work in our hearts and minds to transform us more and more, with each passing day into the image of His Son. I hope that today is the day that you will hear His voice and surrender to His plan for your life. Won�t you ask Jesus into your heart and allow Him to transform your mind?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114
October 18, 2009
bccpreacherman@aol.com

The youth headed to Frontier City after they served at a local church downtown this past Sunday. The 20+ kids overwhelmed the church with their service! Special thanks to Paulo and Patricia Paes for supplying the food!

Just a Reminder: Many of these kids would still love to be adapted by someone like you. They would love for you to pray for them and write them over this next school year. Just call Ryan if you are interested.

Also, we still have some spots for the 2010 ski trip. Don’t be left out!

Through these lessons we have learned about God�His revelation of Himself through His creation, His dealing with our waywardness and sin, His provision of His Son Jesus as the atoning sacrifice for our sin, and His rich mercies that have been demonstrated in every age, and in every possible way. We�ve also learned about God�s wrath and the purpose of God�s judgment throughout history. We�ve learned about us, about humanity. We�ve learned about our sin nature and our deliberate, willful turning away from God. We�ve learned that justification has never come by the law or by works, but only by grace. We�ve learned about the Holy Spirit�s role in making us aware of our sinfulness and our need for God�s forgiveness and grace found in Jesus alone. We�ve learned about how God has worked, and continues to work among all people, Jews and Gentiles alike. We�ve learned that for those who are in Christ there is absolutely nothing that can ever separate us from the love of God found in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Many would say that what we have studied in Romans 1-11 is pure theology, nothing really practical at all. The word �theology� comes from two Greek words that put together means �the study of God.� �Theology,� to many people, is a tiresome word, a boring word. They want the nuts and bolts, the �how to,� not abstract ideas and lofty thoughts. Far from abstract ideas, theology, our understanding of God, is the nuts of bolts of life. What you �think� you will live out. Our thoughts shape our actions. What we believe, truly believe, will be witnessed in our everyday life. What we believe about God, or better yet, what God says about Himself and about us is of greatest importance.

Christian theology is an attempt to study God�s Word so that we can understand God and how He relates to his creation. Fully understanding God is an impossibility for us mere mortals because we are finite creatures attempting to understand an infinite God, but through the study of God�s Word we can know so much more about God than we ever could trying to figure God out on our own.

As I said, we have spent 57 lessons learning about God. What a study it has been! I can�t think of any study I�ve ever done that has been more rewarding, or challenging, than our study of Romans 1-11.

Now we turn to Romans 12-16. Some say this is the �practical� section of Paul�s letter to the church in Rome. I would say that Romans 12-16 is the �application� of Romans 1-11. In the next five chapters of Romans we will learn about how to live out the lessons we have learned in Romans 1-11. James Montgomery Boice outlines the next five chapters into seven categories:
1. Applied Christianity (12:1-2).
2. The Christian and other people (12:3-21).
3. Church and state (13:1-7).
4. The law of love (13:8-14).
5. Christian liberty (14:1-15:13).
6. Paul�s personal ministry and plans (15:14-33).
7. Final greetings (16:1-27).

This is a very good outline in that it gives you and me a good grasp of the broad scope of the topics that Paul will tackle during our upcoming studies. If we were oblivious to Romans 1-11, and the lessons that Paul has taught us about God and His relationship to all of His creation and creatures, then we would not know how to even begin to answer the questions that are before us. Questions like, �What does the Christian life look like?� �How are we, the followers of Jesus, to relate to those around us?� �As Christians, how are we to relate to those in positions of leadership in government?� �How far do you take �the law of love� before you throw in the towel and try something else?� �In Christ we are �free,� but free to do what? Free from what?� Those are such important questions, incredibly important questions, and Romans 1-11 lays a foundation for us so that we have the answers to each of the above questions. Charles Hodge wrote,

All the doctrines of justification, grace, election, and final salvation, taught in the preceding part of the epistle, are made the foundation for the practical duties enjoined to this. (Charles Hodge, A Commentary on Romans. Edinburgh and Carlisle, PA. The Banner of Truth Trust, 1972. pg. 393)

Studying Romans 12-16 without the benefit of first having studied Romans 1-11 would be like me building a home with no prior experience and no plan other than what I think would be right. It would be like going to visit a doctor who loves medicine, but has never been to medical school. It would be like taking someone who plays the role of a Wall Street stockbroker in a movie and trusting their advice about maximizing your investments for the greatest yield. But with Romans 1-11 under our belt we are well prepared to launch into the study of these every day topics with a biblical understanding and therefore a biblical answer as to how we should live. Let�s take a look at our Scripture for this morning found in Romans 12:1-2.

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2 NIV)

You probably noticed, the very first word of Romans 12:1 is, �therefore.� �Therefore� reminds us to look back. Someone once said that whenever you come to a �therefore� in the Bible you should always pay attention because it is �there for� a purpose. There is a world of purpose in this one little word located at the beginning of Romans 12:1. Because of the lessons we have learned in Romans 1-11 we are �therefore� to follow the urging of what comes next.

We�ve witnessed Paul use this powerful little word already in our study of Romans. At the end of Romans 1, Paul described how people have gone astray, all people. Then, in the beginning of Romans 2, Paul writes,

1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. (Romans 2:1 NIV)

Because of the truths of Romans 1, the sinfulness of all of humanity, the truth of Romans 2:1 is made all the more apparent. We who judge others are without excuse because we are as guilty as those we are pointing a long finger of condemnation towards.

In Romans 12:1, Paul tells us that because of the truths of Romans 1-11 we are therefore to present our bodies to God as a living sacrifice. Paul sums up the lessons of Romans 1-11 by saying, �in view of God�s mercy.� This little phrase is not only the summary of all that we have learned so far, but it is the motivation for how we are now called to live our lives.

In the Greek New Testament the word �mercy� is plural, it is the word, �?????????” (oiktirmos) and it means, �compassion, pity, or mercy.� It is a beautiful word that Paul was well familiar with in his own life. It was Paul who wrote to the church in Corinth,

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NIV)

In verse 3, in the NIV, we read that God is �the Father of compassion,� but in Greek it is the same word that we find in Romans 12:1, �mercy.� God is the Father of all compassion; He is the Father of all mercy. We can urge people to be compassionate or to show others mercy, but we have no idea what those words really mean until we understand the compassion and mercy of God.

In Luke 6, Jesus was speaking to His followers about how to relate to others, especially how to relate to those who oppose us, persecute us, and mistreat us. Jesus said, 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. (Luke 6:36 NIV)

The Greek word that we�ve been talking about is used to in the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, the Septuagint, to translate the Hebrew word, �racham” which literally means, �womb or compassion.�

One of the greatest illustrations of the mercy of God is found in Psalm 51. David had committed adultery. It wasn�t a sin he had accidentally committed; he had willfully taken advantage of Bathsheba and strategically planned the elimination of her husband, Uriah. When David�s sin was exposed, he knew he couldn�t appeal to the priest at the temple because he had willfully sinned against God so what was he to do? Who was he to turn to? Turn to Psalm 51 and read with me.

1For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. (Psalm 51:1 NIV)

David, unable to turn to the priest because of the heinous nature of his sin, turned directly to God. He said, �Lord, because of Your unfailing love, because of Your great compassion, blot out, remove my transgression.�

We have many reasons why we do what we do don�t we? There are people who work tirelessly. They put in long, long hours at the office. Why? Well, there are many reasons. Some want to gain a promotion. They want to make it to the top and they believe that by working harder than anyone else they will get noticed. Others work so diligently because they want to make more money. They believe that if they will sacrifice their time now they will reap financial rewards later. I know a young man here in Oklahoma City who, while he was growing up, was homeless, and when he wasn�t homeless he was passed around to relatives and foster homes. He has graduated from college, gone to Law School and is working hard. Why? Because he never wants his children to experience what he experienced as a child.

I heard this past week about an ex-con who came to know Christ in prison. Once he got out he devoted the last 10 years of his life to working with troubled kids in the Dallas area? Why, because he was a troubled kid and he didn�t want the kids in Dallas to follow his footsteps through the prison doors.

I know a young man who, when he was in high school, worked harder than any young athlete I�d ever known. He could have not even practiced and been better than anyone on his team, but he worked harder than them all. Why? Because he had a goal of making it to the NBA one day. He has achieved his goal.

There are a million and one reasons why people do what they do, but for the Christian there is one reason that motivates us for all of life�God�s mercies. Because of God�s mercies we do what we do. Because God has showered His mercy upon us and given us life we want to live for Him. Because God, who is rich in mercy, has rescued us from destruction and claimed us as His very own, we have hope not only for this life, but for all of eternity. Because of God�s great mercy we have the assurance that we are not alone, even as we suffer the trials of this life. In 1 Peter 1:3-6, Peter writes,

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade–kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. (1 Peter 1:3-6 NIV)

Mercy. Mercy. You can cry out for justice all you want, but I will take mercy any day. God�s mercy is sweeter than honey. God�s mercy is hope to the hopeless. God�s mercy gives peace to the tormented. It is mercy that we need and it is mercy that we have been given. Once understood, it is mercy that moves us from being self-absorbed to giving our lives in service to others as an offering to God.

Now that we have the mercy of God in view, Paul tells us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God. This is the language of the temple and the sacrificial system of the priest presenting, or offering, the sacrifice for the people. If you are familiar with the temple sacrifices then you know that an animal would be offered and then killed by the priest because, as the writer of Hebrews tells us,

22 In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. (Hebrews 9:22 NIV)

The priests in the temple offered living sacrifices, but they were to be killed. We are to offer our bodies to God as an act of worship. It is interesting that Paul called his readers to offer their bodies to God. The majority of Paul�s readers in Rome were gentiles, heavily influenced by the Greek mindset that it was the spirit and not the body that was important. John MacArthur writes,

It is helpful to understand that dualistic Greek philosophy still dominated the Roman world in New Testament times. This pagan ideology considered the spirit, or soul, to be inherently good and the body to be inherently evil. And because the body was deemed worthless and would eventually die anyway, what was done to it or with it did not matter. For obvious reasons, that view opened the door to every sort of immorality. Tragically, many believers in the early church, who have many counterparts in the church today, found it easy to fall back into the immoral practices of their former lives, justifying their sin by the false and heretical idea that what the body did could not harm the soul and had no spiritual or eternal significance. Much as in our own day, because immorality was so pervasive, many Christians who did not themselves lead immoral lives became tolerant of sin in fellow believers, thinking it merely was the flesh doing what it naturally did, completely apart from the soul�s influence or responsibility. Yet Paul clearly taught that the body can be controlled by the redeemed soul. He told the sinful Corinthians that the body is not for immorality, but for the Lord; and the Lord is for the body� (1 Cor. 6:11-13). (John MacArthur, MacArthur�s New Testament Commentary: Romans 9-16. The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. 1994)

Sad to say, this mindset is still with us today. Many followers of Jesus confess with their mouths one thing, they say they love Jesus, they quote the Bible as the source of Truth for their lives, but their lives betray their words. They live as if Jesus had never said a word. Studies have shown that for the majority of those who call themselves �Christians,� there is little to no difference in their lifestyle and the lifestyles of those who claim no allegiance to Jesus at all.

This past week in my Wednesday night Bible study Chuck Colson said, �Culture is religion incarnate. If you have a sick culture then you have a sick Church.� I�ve thought so much about Chuck�s statement. There is no debating that our society is sick and getting sicker. Divorce, abuse, abortion, alternative lifestyles, addiction to pornography, drugs, and alcohol, murder, lying, apathy, stealing, vulgarity, and the list goes on and on and on. Alongside of these symptoms of our sick society is the startling fact that there are approximately 350,000 churches in America. That is about 7,000 churches for each state! Pollsters say that on any given Sunday about 40% of our population is in church somewhere. There are 305,000,000 Americans. That means that about 120,000,000 are in church on any given Sunday. Wouldn�t you think that 120,000,000 people who are living out the call of God on their life, focused on being a blessing to those around them and honoring God by the way they live their lives would make a difference in a society, even a society as sick as ours?

Our problem is not quantity, but conviction. The vast majority of those who call themselves �Christians� do so in name only. Paul, in Romans 12, says, �present your bodies to God.� He really means the totality of who we are. We are to give our all, every fiber of our being, to God, to be used for His purposes and His glory. In another place, earlier in Romans, Paul wrote,

13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. (Romans 6:13 NIV)

We are to lay ourselves on the altar in service to God. Every minute of every day, in His service, for His glory. Holy and pleasing to God. Paul says, ��this is your spiritual act of worship.� I want us to understand the word translated, �spiritual,� in this verse. The Greek word, �???????� (logikos) means, �pertaining to reason or logic� or �spiritual, pertaining to the soul.� The word is an adjective which modifies the noun, �worship.�

When you hear the word, �worship,� what comes to mind? Is it a building with a stained glass window adorning the front wall? Is it heavenly music being sung by a sea of adoring souls? Or is it going to visit someone in the hospital, cooking a meal for someone, praying for someone who is troubled, or changing a flat for someone stuck on the side of the road? Worship is all of these things and much more. The word that Paul used for worship is the Greek word, �???????� (latreia) which means, �any service of God� or �the service and worship of God.� The NIV translates the phrase, �this is your spiritual act of worship,� but we could just as easily read it, �this is the logical service you offer to God.� Makes sense doesn�t it? After all that God has done for us, the mercies He has showered upon us, could we give anything less than every fiber of being, our every thought and action, to His service, for His glory?

For the last eleven chapters Paul has laid out before us theology, an understanding of who God is, what God does, and how God relates to His creation and creatures. Now that the foundation has been laid Paul turns his attention to the issue at hand�living life in light of what we know to be true.

There is a difference between those who know Jesus, those who have been claimed by God and called to be His ambassadors in this broken world, and those who do not know the Lord and are living life however they see fit. When Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, he said,

17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. (Ephesians 4:17 NIV)

Paul doesn�t �urge� them not to live like unbelievers, he �insists� that they not live like unbelievers. Paul wants them to live a counter-cultural lifestyle. What does this mean? I�m so glad you have asked! There are some characteristics of modern-day life that are embraced by our culture. I can�t give you an exhaustive list, but let me list just a couple.

The most prominent characteristic is that �I� am what matters most in the Universe. What I want is what is most important. If someone else has to suffer for me to get what I want then that is perfectly fine with me, even though I would never admit to it. Everything in our culture nudges us towards this philosophy. Do what you have to do to get what you want to get. Jesus was far more astute with understanding culture than we will ever be and to this He said,

24 �”If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? (Matthew 16:24-26 NIV)

In the words of the wild man who never owned a Gucci or Valentino business suit, but instead wore clothes made out of camel�s hair while eating locusts and honey instead of caviar and called people to repentance, 30 He must become greater; I must become less. (John 3:30 NIV)

A second characteristic of our culture is the pleasure principle. We deserve to be happy, to explore the outer limits of whatever promises to bring us pleasure in life. Just watch television for an evening and you will find 1,000 pitches to try and get you to try their product. These pitchmen are peddling the things that are legal. Then there are those who hang out on the street corner or entice you at the office or seek to lure you through the internet. Is it wrong? Is it destructive? Will it lead to harm in your own life or in the lives of those who love you? Will it bring dishonor to God? Doesn�t matter as long as it brings you pleasure. There is no one who has ever had the means to explore the vast frontiers of pleasure like Solomon. Solomon kept a diary and I just happen to have it�so do you. It is called Ecclesiastes and you can find it tucked in God�s Word right after Proverbs. After all of Solomon�s exploits he wrote,

1I thought in my heart, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good.” But that also proved to be meaningless. 2 “Laughter,” I said, “is foolish. And what does pleasure accomplish?” 3 I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly–my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives. 4 I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards. 5 I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them. 6 I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. 7 I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me. 8 I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem as well–the delights of the heart of man. 9 I became greater by far than anyone in Jerusalem before me. In all this my wisdom stayed with me. 10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. 11 Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 NIV)

Our society is sick because we have pursued that which is of no value and neglected that which is of greater worth than gold. Offer your life to the Lord to be used as He sees fit. Offer your life to the Lord to be used as an instrument of peace, healing, reconciliation, encouragement, and inspiration to those around you. Offer yourself to God and forget about pursuing the things that this world says are so important. Before you and I can ever offer ourselves to God for His purposes we must confess our sin and ask for His healing, saving hands to draw us to Himself. This begins at the foot of the cross where Jesus died so that you and I might live a brand new life. Won�t you invite Him into your heart this morning?

Mike Hays
Britton Christian Church
922 NW 91st
OKC, OK. 73114

1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God– 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.(Romans 1:1-4 NIV)

Paul said that he was �set apart for the gospel of God,� and then, for the next eleven chapters, he has laid out before us the �gospel��the Good News of God. He has described for us the predicament that is faced by all Jews and Gentiles�we are sinners without hope apart from God�s grace. He has told us, in Romans 3, that now a righteousness apart from the law has appeared and is made available to us through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul has made it clear to us that a right relationship with God comes by faith and not by �works,� contrary to popular opinion. Paul, in Romans 9-11, has described for us God�s mysterious work which is ongoing in Jew and Gentile alike throughout the world. No, God is not done, He is still working!

When Paul arrives at the end of his description of how God has been working in salvation history he lays down his pen and falls to his knees in adoration and praise. The great Bible teacher, John R.W. Stott puts it much more eloquently than I ever could when he writes,

For eleven chapters Paul has been giving his comprehensive account of the gospel. Step by step he has shown how God has revealed his way of putting sinners right with himself, how Christ died for our sins and was raised for our justification, how we are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, how the Christian life is lived not under the law but in the Spirit, and how God plans to incorporate the fullness of Israel and of the Gentiles into his new community. Paul�s horizons are vast. He takes time and eternity, history and eschatology, justification, sanctification and glorification. Now he stops, out of breath. Analysis and argument must give way to adoration�Before Paul goes on to outline the practical implications of the gospel, he falls down before God and worships. (John Stott, The Message of Romans. Inter-Varsity Press: Downers Grove, IL. 1994. pg. 309)

Paul�s theology turns to praise. The more I have thought about the first eleven chapters of Romans the more I have realized that this is the natural progression for the student of God�s Word. Think about it with me for a minute. The more we study God�s Word the more we learn about God. The more we learn about God the more we marvel at His character and His ways�His salvation, His grace, His mercy, His sovereignty, His omniscience, omnipotence, and omnipresence. The more we learn about God�s holiness and His willingness to reach out and rescue an unholy people like us, the more we marvel at His ways. The less we know about God the less we are inclined to marvel at God and His ways. John R.W. Stott puts it this way.

It is of great importance to note that from Romans 1-11 that theology (our belief about God) and doxology (our worship of God) should never be separated. On the one hand, there can be no doxology without theology. It is not possible to worship an unknown god. All true worship is a response to the self-revelation of God in Christ and Scripture, and arises from our reflection on who he is and what he has done. It was the tremendous truths of Romans 1-11 which provoked Paul�s outburst of praise. The worship of God is evoked, informed and inspired by the vision of God. (John Stott, The Message of Romans. Inter-Varsity Press: Downers Grove, IL. 1994. pg. 311)

Theology and doxology. Two sides of the same coin. One feeds the other. The more we learn, not just simple head knowledge, but a deep, intimate knowledge of the character and ways of our God, the more we will praise Him for who He is, what He has done, and what He continues to do. The more we worship Him, praise Him, and marvel at His matchless ways, the more we want to learn about Him, the more we want to get to know Him. Let�s take a look at our Scripture for today found in Romans 11:33-36.

33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” 35 “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” 36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. (Romans 11:33-36 NIV)

There are two different ways that we can read the first sentence of verse 33. Let me explain. There are three nouns in this sentence: �riches, wisdom, and knowledge.� Because of this you can read the sentence as, �Oh, the depth of the riches, wisdom, and knowledge of God!� or you can subordinate �riches� and read it as, �Oh, the rich depth of the wisdom and knowledge of God!� Bible teachers are not in agreement about how to read the verse, some read it one way and some another, but the NIV is probably right in highlighting the wisdom and knowledge of God.

How deep is the knowledge and wisdom of our God? Our problem is that we don�t contemplate the wisdom and knowledge of God nearly enough. Because of this we begin to think that God thinks like we think; that whatever it is that we would do in any given circumstance or situation, God would act in the same manner. Nothing could be further from the truth. God has said �For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways.� (Isaiah 55:8 NIV)

From the time we are born we are learning. Hopefully we will learn throughout our entire life. There is so much to learn. From learning to speak our first words to taking our first steps. From learning subjects in school like math, history, science, and the arts, and so much more, to learning about life�how to relate to others, how to be responsible and dependable, and how to care for our family and friends. There is so much to learn that we will never learn it all, but the same cannot be said of God. A. W. Tozer has written,

God cannot learn. Could God at any time or in any manner receive into his mind knowledge that he did not possess and had not possessed from eternity, he would be imperfect and less than himself. To think of a God who must sit at the feet of a teacher, even though that teacher be an archangel or a seraph, is to think of someone other than the Most High God, maker of heaven and earth�

God knows instantly and effortlessly all matter and all matters, all mind and every mind, all spirit and all spirits, all being and every being, all creaturehood and all creatures, every plurality and all pluralities, all law and every law, all relations, all causes, all thoughts, all mysteries, all enigmas, all feelings, all desires, every unuttered secret, all thrones and dominions, all personalities, all things visible and invisible in heaven and in earth, motion, space, time, life, death, good, evil, heaven, and hell�

Because God knows all things perfectly, he knows no thing better than any other thing, but all things equally well. He never discovers anything, he is never surprised, never amazed. He never wonders about anything nor (except when drawing men out for their own good) does he seek information or ask questions. (A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy: The Attributes of God, Their Meaning in the Christian Life. New York, Evanston and London: Harper and Row, 1961, pp. 61, 62.)

He is the transcendent King over all things with perfect knowledge of the vast regions of space unseen and as yet unknown to humanity. He is the imminent Father who knows every minute detail of the intricacies of the sub-atomic world. The latest discoveries in Quantum Mechanics are no news to God. It is a marvelous thing to unlock the �genetic code� as scientists in our day are doing, but it is an altogether different thing to �write� the Code. Humans have mapped the stars, split the atom, and tamed the wild beast, but God hung the stars, spoke the atom into being, and fashioned each wild beast in His tender hands.

God�s knowledge is vast, unsurpassed, unparalleled, and unequaled. God has perfect knowledge. God�s knowledge does not simply pertain to those high and lofty matters of creation and the cosmos, but He has perfect knowledge of you and me as well. The Psalmist said that He knit us together in our mother�s womb. Moses wrote, in Genesis 2, that God breathed into us the breath of life. Paul said, in Acts 17, that �in Him we live and move and have our being.� On our life�s journey, He is the One who sustains us every minute of every day. David wrote,

4 Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. (Psalm 54:4 NIV)

As astounding as it is that God possesses perfect knowledge about every subject we�ve discussed there is still an even greater marvel. It is His knowledge of you and me. We live in our own skin, no one knows the thoughts that hover in our minds throughout the day except us, and those we let in on our thoughts, and nobody knows us like we know ourselves. Right? This is truly amazing! God knows you better than you know yourself. He knows me better than I know myself. David wrote,

1 For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. 5 You hem me in–behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (Psalm 139:1-10 NIV)

Just listening to those words and learning about God�s infinite knowledge about us should drop us to our knees in worship and praise.

Paul couples God�s knowledge with His wisdom. Knowledge is the accumulation of information, but wisdom is knowing how to use the information in a way that will be beneficial and a blessing to others. I have known many people who were very knowledgeable, but a fool. Possessing wisdom includes morality and goodness as well as knowledge. If a person possesses knowledge about medical science he or she can use their knowledge to bring comfort and healing to those who are suffering or, as in the case of a doctor that I heard about from Australia just this week, Dr. Philip Nitschke, he can use his medical expertise to help people commit suicide. That is not wisdom. It doesn�t take a doctor to help people commit suicide.

Paul says that God is infinite knowledge and infinitely good in His decisions to use His knowledge to bring about the blessing and benefit of those He loves. Now, we have to remember that Paul was caught up in praising God and marveling at the wonders of God about a very specific subject�salvation history. When you understand the predicament that was, and is, faced by all of humanity and the way that God has dealt with our predicament, you and I can easily see that God has used His infinite knowledge in a way that expresses His infinite wisdom for the blessing of us all. Who would have ever thought that a holy and righteous God would stoop to such a level as to devise a plan, from the foundation of the world, to rescue the very ones He created, gave life, and yet, with all that He had done for them, they willfully walked away from His arms of grace and mercy? Who would have ever thought it? In Romans 11:33, Paul writes,

33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! (Romans 11:33 NIV)

You and I need to understand the word, �judgments.� The Greek word that is translated as �judgments� is the word, �????ata� (krimata). It is most often used to describe �judgment� in a legal sense, but it is also used to describe God�s decisions or decrees. The second use is no doubt what Paul intends here in Romans 11:33. Paul says that God�s decisions and His �paths� are beyond tracing out. God�s knowledge and wisdom are put into action as He plans and executes His plans throughout history. The phrase �beyond tracing out� is an interesting phrase for Paul to use and boy does it pack a lot of meaning for you and for me. James Montgomery Boice writes,

This word, �?????????????� is based on the Greek noun which means, �footprint.� It suggests that although we do not know where God is coming from or where he is going, we nevertheless do see his footprints, and it is these that puzzle us. (James Montgomery Boice, Romans, Vol. 3. Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI. 1993. Pg. 1443.)

What has overwhelmed Paul is the fact that God�s decrees, His plans, are so far beyond our capacity to comprehend that we can�t follow them to the end, not with the logical-laboratory-tested-mindset that is so prevalent and predictable today. Some of you may say, �That�s not right. We can know the will of God, we can know what God is doing and what He is going to do just by sticking with His Word.� I continue to be amused and amazed at those in our society who can see world events unfolding before our eyes and immediately jump on the internet to blog or email about what God is doing and what will happen next. For those of you who think that I lack faith I want you to know that I have absolute trust that God knows what He is doing. I also have complete conviction that I don�t know much of anything, and can�t even figure myself out much less God. I will let God be God and trust that His perfect plan is unfolding to this very day and will continue to unfold until the final day.

I�ve taken this position after years of studying God�s Word and seeing in the lives of His people the most extraordinary and unbelievable events unfold. God has worked in people�s lives in ways that boggle the imagination. God promised Abraham a son when he was 75 years old and He delivered on His promise 25 years later. God takes a washed-up has-been who had been wiling away his life for the past 40 years on the backside of a mountain taking care of Jethro�s flocks and He transforms him into the deliverer of the Hebrew slaves in Egypt. The sentence I just shared with you took 80 years to live out